The Dubai Metro network has been affected by last week's heavy flooding. Antonie Robertson / The National
The Dubai Metro network has been affected by last week's heavy flooding. Antonie Robertson / The National
The Dubai Metro network has been affected by last week's heavy flooding. Antonie Robertson / The National
The Dubai Metro network has been affected by last week's heavy flooding. Antonie Robertson / The National

Public urged to avoid Dubai Metro during rush hour as flood clean-up continues


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Transport authorities on Tuesday urged the public to temporarily limit their use of the Dubai Metro during peak hours following widespread disruption to services caused by last week's unprecedented storms.

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority sent the plea to users of its mobile app as efforts continue to restore all routes affected by the adverse weather.

A number of stations on the Green and Red lines of the citywide network were taken out of operation due to heavy flooding.

The UAE experienced its largest single day of rainfall in 75 years last Tuesday, with a major clean-up operation still in full force one week on.

"We encourage you to reduce using the Metro during peak hours," the RTA message stated.

"Plan your trips ahead, use alternative stations and public transport until all stations return to normal operation."

The RTA said it appreciated the "co-operation and understanding" of commuters "during these challenging times".

Disruption to services

The RTA said on its website all 20 stations on the Green Line of the transport network and now back up and running.

A reduced schedule is still in operation on the larger Red Line, which features 35 stations, with trains not stopping at several stations.

Dubai Metro is in service on the line from Centrepoint station to Expo 2020 station and UAE Exchange stations, but is not stopping at the Onpassive, Equiti, Mashreq and Energy stations.

Travellers boarding at Centrepoint are advised that trains will be switched at Business Bay and Al Khail stations, with replacement bus services being laid on.

Sheikh Hamdan hails flood response

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, on Tuesday praised the emirate's response to the extreme weather.

He emphasised the emirate's ability to overcome challenges as he chaired a meeting of Dubai's Executive Council.

He commended the efforts of government and emergency response teams, including the Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management, and the solidarity of the public.

“Dubai has once again demonstrated the strength and cohesiveness of its society; one that is based on unity, solidarity and readiness to face and overcome challenges," Sheikh Hamdan said, in comments carried by state news agency Wam.

"Dubai is blessed with its people and, on behalf of the leadership, we say: thank you.”

During the meeting, Sheikh Hamdan directed government departments to develop a comprehensive action plan to deal with extreme weather events.

More than 25,000 personnel and volunteers were involved in the emergency response, in addition to about 5,000 security patrols, emergency vehicles, tankers, buses, and water pump operators.

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How being social media savvy can improve your well being

Next time when procastinating online remember that you can save thousands on paying for a personal trainer and a gym membership simply by watching YouTube videos and keeping up with the latest health tips and trends.

As social media apps are becoming more and more consumed by health experts and nutritionists who are using it to awareness and encourage patients to engage in physical activity.

Elizabeth Watson, a personal trainer from Stay Fit gym in Abu Dhabi suggests that “individuals can use social media as a means of keeping fit, there are a lot of great exercises you can do and train from experts at home just by watching videos on YouTube”.

Norlyn Torrena, a clinical nutritionist from Burjeel Hospital advises her clients to be more technologically active “most of my clients are so engaged with their phones that I advise them to download applications that offer health related services”.

Torrena said that “most people believe that dieting and keeping fit is boring”.

However, by using social media apps keeping fit means that people are “modern and are kept up to date with the latest heath tips and trends”.

“It can be a guide to a healthy lifestyle and exercise if used in the correct way, so I really encourage my clients to download health applications” said Mrs Torrena.

People can also connect with each other and exchange “tips and notes, it’s extremely healthy and fun”.

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Syria v Australia
2018 World Cup qualifying: Asia fourth round play-off first leg
Venue: Hang Jebat Stadium (Malacca, Malayisa)
Kick-off: Thursday, 4.30pm (UAE)
Watch: beIN Sports HD

* Second leg in Australia scheduled for October 10

Updated: April 24, 2024, 5:16 PM