‘Safety First’ mantra
The year 2014 for the UAE literally began with a big bang
when Dubai created history with one of the most exhilarating fireworks display
ever witnessed in recent times. It took great effort and lots of dedicated
man-hours to achieve the fantastic feat.
Meanwhile, the Chinese year of the Horse has already gained
momentum and we are already into its third week within no time.
Promoting safety is one aspect I have been concentrating on
for sometime now — especially road safety.
Whichever way one tries to educate people, it is careless
minds and actions that spoil all the good work, which is very sad. However, our
focus should not be derailed and efforts to maintain safety should continue
with sustained interest and dedication.
The recent accident on Abu Dhabi-Al Ain Highway is a case in
point. If only sufficient caution had been exercised by those on the road at
the time, the accident – which was one of the most serious on the emirate’s
roads — could have been averted.
The other day, I was overtaken by a minibus, whose speed
limit is supposed to be 80kmph, while I was cruising along at just below that
speed. Seeing that I was not inclined to accelerate, he began gesticulating and
shouting at me. I gave him way and he sped past at a much higher speed than
permitted.
I allowed him to overtake me in order to note down the
details of his transport company so as to alert them about his driving style.
After a signal, when I finally caught up with him, by way of
mocking at me to slow down, he began indicating to me the presence of a speed
camera that was installed ahead.
The incident reinforces my belief that there will be no
escape from tragedies till road users stop making mockery of traffic safety
regulations.
Let “Safety First” remain our mantra for the benefit of all.
Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi
To read it in original, please visit GULF TODAY online (Short Take - Gulf Today - Dt. 18 January 2014)
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