ADM Impounds 100 Vehicles, Urges Public to Maintain Urban Appearance of Abu Dhabi

The Abu Dhabi City Municipality has carried out a wide-ranging campaign to combat the phenomenon of abandoned vehicles and machinery in public places and residential districts for prolonged periods without caring for them or their cleanliness. The campaign was run in implementation of the strategy and plans of the Municipality aimed at curbing all sorts of disfiguring elements to protect the environment and maintain the outlook of Abu Dhabi Emirate.

During the campaign, which was targeted Al Mafraq Industrial Area, 100 vehicles and machinery have been impounded and towed to the impounding yard for being abandoned for lengthy periods; a practice that distorts the public view and creates optical pollution. 150 warnings have been issued to vehicles in violation.

The Municipality reiterated its keenness to educate the public about the negative impacts, such as those caused by abandoned vehicles, on the community and the environment. It called on the public and partners to take part in the efforts of the Municipality aimed at maintaining the gorgeous appearance of the city and suburban areas; which will reflect positively on the entire community members through providing a safe environment free from pollutants.

Through continuing with these campaigns, the Municipality is seeking to control eyesores of all types, and continue educating the public about the importance of caring for their vehicles and machinery and avoid leaving them covered in dust for lengthy periods. The inspection and awareness campaigns launched by municipal inspectors, and before issuing any offence or starting the removal of vehicles to the impounding areas, witness the issuance of warnings against owners of abandoned vehicles.

The Municipality is coping with this phenomenon in accordance with legal procedures based on the Law No. (2) for 2012 for maintaining the public appearance, health and tranquillity in Abu Dhabi Emirate along with its Executive Regulations. Subsequent amendments revised the notice period had been specified as three days instead of 14 days following which the inspector will notify the vehicles-towing company to remove the often-dusted vehicle. The law applies to all vehicles including trailers, boats and others; which are all subject to removal to vehicles impounding areas at Al Wathba and Al Mafraq Industrial Areas.

In implementation of the provisions of the Law No (2) for 2012, a fine of AED3,000 (three thousand dirhams) is imposed, and once the offender reports to the Municipality, a settlement is offered including the payment of 50% of the fine. But should the offence recurs, the fine will be doubled and daily impounding fees will be applied, depending on the type of vehicle, and the area from which the vehicle had been removed.