UAE: E311 truck congestion causes 6 deaths, 137 accidents; lawmaker calls for action
Traffic congestion caused by lorries along the Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Road (E311) has resulted in six fatalities and 137 accidents since January, the Federal National Council (FNC) heard on Wednesday.
FNC member Mohammed Al Kashf raised the issue, citing persistent traffic problems near the Abu Dhabi-Al Ain exit in Umm Al Quwain, where lorries frequently stop on the roadside. 'Road users are complaining day and night about the severe congestion,' he said during the session.
Al Kashf addressed his concerns to Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure. In a written response provided ahead of the meeting, the Ministry acknowledged the challenges related to truck access at the Umm Al Quwain exit.
'These issues were previously identified,' the Ministry's statement read. 'In response, we coordinated with the Ministry of Interior to study the situation. As a result, a traffic solution was implemented in the form of a 'yellow box' system, intended to regulate traffic flow and ease congestion in the area.'
However, the Ministry noted that some truck drivers continue to disregard road signs prohibiting entry into intersections unless the path ahead is clear. 'We will continue coordinating with the Ministry of Interior to enforce compliance. Measures include stepped-up traffic awareness campaigns, the apprehension of violators, and the imposition of appropriate legal penalties,' the statement concluded.
After reading the response aloud, Al Kashf questioned its effectiveness. 'Is this truly a suitable solution?' he asked, while presenting video evidence of daily traffic jams. 'Just this morning, I received footage showing a pile-up of cars and lorries during the morning commute in Umm Al Quwain.'
He stressed the need for more robust and modern interventions, citing global practices that utilize Artificial Intelligence and advanced technology to manage traffic challenges. 'We must put an end to these recurring crashes,' he said. 'Residents are voicing their frustration every morning and evening.'
Al Kashf proposed a redesign of the problematic exit, suggesting its expansion to facilitate smoother truck movement. He also called for clearer signage ahead of the exit to improve safety. 'There needs to be a real, direct solution to this issue,' he concluded.
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