Government

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) revealed that it would re-open the left and U-turns at the intersection of Al Sayora - Al Safouh Roads, JBR; which is likewise used by the Dubai Tram, on March 2nd, 2016. The announcement follows the charting of a detailed plan for Zero Accident in this essential area, specifically after the operation of the Dubai Tram, and given that the road users have been accustomed to the existence of the tram.

Explaining the step, Hussain Al Banna, Director of Traffic, RTA Traffic & Roads Agency, stated: "We have actually set up a committee of RTA professionals where a worldwide specialist has been selected to draw up an extensive plan to realize the Tram/Roads Safety Strategy. The strategy encompasses organizational treatments with 15 strategic suggestions integrated within a 5-Year Plan covering programs, procedures and efforts to be carried out in partnership with the strategic partners with the aim of attaining zero mishaps with Dubai Tram by 2020. Under the strategy a number of preventive measures have been set to remove prospective accidents in between the Tram and vehicles in connection with turns at Al Sayora - Al Safouh Road intersection at JBR, and along the track of the Tram; which covers 10.6 km consisting of 11 stations.

"The group managing the plan for the safety of road users and Tram motion has actually developed the Tram/Roads Strategy consisting of numerous Quick Wins consisting of the signing-off of more than 100 comments associating with the safety of the tram and traffic movement as part of an Action Plan. Such a plan comprises a number of elements associating with engineering matters, traffic movement, operation of light signals, awareness projects, training, traffic enforcement procedures, and the coordination of technical and management procedures with strategic partners," said Al Banna.

"We have actually presented a function in the traffic light signaling system where all light signals will turn red once the tram approaches the junction. Surveillance electronic cameras are being installed to keep track of all automobiles jumping the red signals in coordination with the General Department of Traffic at the Dubai Police. An awareness project is being carried out in this regard and a Memorandum of Understanding has actually been signed in between the RTA and the Dubai Police to guarantee the safe usage of these turns. The Dubai Tram has got advanced innovations to caution the tram drivers in case of over-speeding, and the tram speed will automatically be decreased in case of no reaction from the motorist. The tram operator has a standard procedure which is imposed in case a tram driver commits multiple offences posing risk to roadway users.

"Among the vital factors underlying the closure of these turns was to offer a chance for vehicle drivers to acquaint themselves with the movement of the tram in this area. The re-opening of these turns is based upon a preventive plan to fend off mishaps and maintain the safety of the tram in addition to vehicle drivers. The strategy will go through 3 months keeping track of and added procedures will be taken appropriately, if required. All roadway users have to follow traffic and driving rules, and focus on light signals to prevent any major mishaps," continued Al Banna.

"There is a strategy to re-open the turn at the crossways of Al Sayora - Marina Roads, Al Safouh - Marina Roads, in addition to the Marina and Al Shurta Roads on June 1st, and on Sept 1st, the RTA will re-open the turn at the crossway of Al Safouh - Al Gharbi Roads. The RTA is restructuring and revamping its plans & strategies for roads in the Emirate in keeping with the requirements of roadway users under vision of providing Safe and Sooth Transport for All," described the Director of Traffic, RTA Traffic & Roads Agency.

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