50% fine discount scheme extended until June 30 in UAE

The 50 per cent discount on fines for illegal operation of vehicles - car lifts - will continue until June 30, the Sharjah Road and Transport Authority (SRTA) has announced.

Abdulaziz Al Jarwan, director of transportation affairs at the SRTA, urged violators to benefit from the discount before the end of the discount period. "The decision, implemented by the Sharjah Executive Council under the directives of His

Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, is part of measures to stimulate investment and support the economy during the current Covid-19 pandemic," he said.

Rashid Al Nuaimi, director of the transportation activities control department at the SRTA, said the facilitation package is part of the SRTA discounts announced from March 31 for a period of three months. "Operating private cars for car lift services is illegal and a fine of Dh5,000 is slapped on violators. If the offence is repeated, the fine is doubled to Dh10,000. Fines can be paid through the authority's website www.srta.gov.ae," he said.

Al Nuaimi urged drivers to take advantage of the discount and adhere to the laws and not repeat the offence to ensure the safety and security of society. "The SRTA inspection team, with more than 40 officers, will continue to combat the negative phenomenon in the emirate. The inspection areas include industrial areas, workers' accommodations as well as shopping centres."

The public is urged to report any illegal practices through the SRTA call centre (600525252), he added.

Quality control

Al Nuaimi said the SRTA has launched a smart system for violations related to quality control of public transport.

"The system sends an alert message to the taxi driver informing his violation. Through the quality control services section, we work to provide the best taxi services, especially at the Sharjah airport, hospitals, shopping malls, due to the demand for public transport in these places."