UAE: CICPA Announces Marine Safety Campaign

The UAE’s Critical Infrastructure and Coastal Protection Authority (CICPA), a specialized government body that protects the critical infrastructure and coasts of the UAE, announced a marine safety campaign ‘Bihar 2013’ aimed at all users of the seas to spread the awareness of marine safety and security regulations.

Colonel Salem Al Kindi, said, “Bihar is a CICPA initiative that builds partnerships with the community to promote maritime safety, security and environmental responsibility across the UAE”.

Colonel Al Kindi outlined the main aims of the programme and stressed the importance of the UAE’s coastline.

He said, “The coastal waters surrounding our country provide recreation and livelihoods for hundreds of thousands of people. It is vitally important that they are aware of the rules that are specifically designed to protect their safety and preserve the environment.”

During 2012 CICPA, which includes the UAE Coast Guard and coordinates search and rescue activities, received more than 10,000 distress calls on their dedicated 996 emergency number. Colonel Al Kindi said, “Whilst many of these calls were non-critical, it’s clear that people have come to know that calling 996 is the first step in reporting marine related incidents, whether it’s something people have witnessed or something they personally experience.”

Around 13,500 vessels registered at UAE ports are now fitted with the mandatory ‘Maritime Safety and Security tracking system’. This electronic system is considered one of the most advanced tools available that allow the Coast Guard to exactly pinpoint a vessel and its precise position in the event of an emergency.

Colonel Al Kindi said, “water sports are now an essential part of tourism, especially at this time of the year when sea activities are more increased, as these activities have become very popular with many families and individuals, therefore through the Bihar campaign we aim to promote marine safety procedures and encourage people to follow the regulations and use the maritime emergency line 996 in the event of an emergency.”

Fishermen are also a main focus for the campaign as it will support their needs and educate them on responsible fishing practices and regulations in order to protect the coastal environment.

The Colonel further added, “That Bihar 2013 will secure the support of popular sports personalities to serve as ambassadors for the campaign through a schools visit programme and participation at marine events to demonstrate safety procedures at sea. Through Bihar 2013, CICPA looks forward to collaborating with different partners in both public and private sectors, as well as individuals to achieve the campaign objectives.”

[mappress]

CICPA, January 31, 2013