RTA launches public transport safety campaign

Essa Abdul Rahman Al Dosari, Committee of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the PTA commented that this campaign reflects the RTA's commitment to improving public transport, by developing drivers' skills and promoting safety and passenger confidence in Dubai's transportation network.

"The safety campaign has been designed to reinforce and enhance the skills that all public bus drivers acquire during the compulsory three month training course. The RTA's mission is to develop integrated solutions for road systems and transportation networks that are safe and in line with Dubai's economic development plans and the highest international standards.

"This latest safety model will serve as a solid learning tool to underpin the drivers' training once qualified, as well as support the growth of the Emirate's public transport sector. We are committed to increasing the safety and skills set of our drivers and ensuring the best service for Dubai. And the tactical alliance between the RTA and RogenSi will drive Dubai's public transport forward, with training already completed with the various strata of the RTA in communication, customer service, business development and media coaching," said Al Dosari.

The interactive safety sessions will be conducted at the Al Awir Bus Depot auditorium, where bus drivers will attend an intensive session involving a series of presentations, videos and exercises designed to raise the drivers' awareness and motivation.

"This campaign is a first step which marks the beginning of a huge public safety movement, which will positively affect all levels of transport. We will significantly decrease the numbers of road accidents and set the bar for all future transport development.

"The PTA will continually assess the needs of public transportation and similar campaigns will be mobilised through the Health, Safety and Environment Office. The success of these campaigns also relies on educating the general public on how to safely use public transport and ensure that they are aware of how to make the roads a safer place," concluded Al Dosari.

Studies from the UK's Institute of Advanced Motorists show that various factors such as mood and stress can have a direct effect on driving skills. RogenSi will teach the drivers how to access the skills that they have already learnt under various performance affecting situations.

"Being able to identify and react properly whilst under pressure is an integral part of the training sessions that the drivers are attending," said Terry Reynolds, Managing Director of RogenSi Middle East.

"Drivers will be taught the tools to fully utilise the driving skills and safety procedures covered as part of the three month driver training programme. This will allow drivers to perform to the best of their abilities in every situation on the roads of Dubai and will help to improve the performance, safety and efficiency of public transport in Dubai.

"Being able to work with the RTA presents a huge opportunity to be a part of Dubai's bright future, providing people with the skill, the will and the way to drive performance development," added Reynolds.

On any given week day, Dubai has up to 504 buses running on 62 bus routes travelling over 168,000 kilometres. The bus network currently covers 35% of the emirate which will rise to over 60% by the end of 2008.