Staff Major General Saad bin Jassim al-Khulaifi, the Director General of Public Security, with Brigadier Mohamed Saad al-Kharji, the Director General of the General Directorate of Traffic, and French ambassador Eric Chevallier led the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
A statement from the Ministry of Interior (MoI) said that the delegations visited the headquarters of the General Directorate of Traffic Sunday morning to discuss the latest traffic developments traffic in Gulf countries.
The officials also tackled ways of strengthening co-operation between the GCC countries, aimed at raising the level of traffic awareness to reduce road accidents, according to MoI.
Desert rescue vehicles displayed at Darb Al Saai.
The opening ceremony at Darb Al Saai saw officials touring various stalls of public and private entities taking part in the event, including Lekhwiya, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Qatar Red Crescent (QRCS), Al Fazaa, and a number of driving schools.
Exhibitors are distributing several leaflets, brochures, and other reading materials to visitors, highlighting their programmes and services that help in preventing traffic accidents and ensure safer roads.
At this year’s event, dubbed “Your Life is Trust”, are a series of lectures and seminars, competitions and entertainment activities as part of its efforts to continuously educate the public, especially road users, on road safety.
Many participants are highlighting key messages on road safety, particularly the wearing seat belts at all times and not using mobile phones while driving.
In a brochure distributed to visitors, the General Directorate of Traffic suggests that pedestrians use zebra lines and observe traffic signals, among others, when crossing roads.
Pedestrians should also keep away from the edge of roads and pavements, and to get a clear view of traffic movements.
Motorists, on the other hand, should slow down to 40kph while approaching roundabouts, traffic signals, pedestrian crossings, and intersections.
Motorists are also advised to give children, senior citizens, and people with disabilities enough time to cross the road.
The event is set to welcome students from different schools across Qatar from 8am to 12noon, while families and the public can come from 4pm to 10pm.
Karwa Driving School is allowing visitors to try some of its state-of-the-art truck and light vehicle rollover simulators as part of its effort to support and promote safe and defensive driving in Qatar.
Lekhwiya and the General Directorate of Traffic are also showcasing their latest vehicles and modern equipment being used in their operations.
Meanwhile, HMC and QRCS personnel are providing free lectures on first aid and life-saving techniques.
Organisers have set up volleyball and mini football courts, as well as a play area for children who want to take engage in sports activities at the venue.
There are also food stalls, eateries, and cafes serving local cuisines, snacks, delicacies and sweets.
Staff Maj Gen al-Khulaifi, Brig al-Kharji, and French ambassador Chevallier tour at the event. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam
Senior traffic officials and delegates from Qatar and neighbouring countries converged on Doha on Sunday to open the 33rd GCC Traffic Week, taking place at Darb Al Saai, Al Sadd.
