DUBAI // Drivers who jump red lights or cause crashes at Dubai Tram intersections could incur a fine of up to Dh30,000 and lose their licence for a year.
The Roads and Transport Authority's warning comes ahead of the launch of the Al Sufouh Tram project in less than a month, on November 11.
The authority, in advertisements in local media, said that a motorist who drives through a red light at a road-tram intersection can be handed a Dh5,000 fine and can lose their licence for up to three months, even if they did not cause a crash.
However, if the person causes injury to another, they can be fined up to Dh15,000 and lose their licence for six months.
If someone dies as a result of a crash at a tram intersection, the driver responsible will face a Dh30,000 fine and could lose their licence for a year, in addition to any police charges.
Earlier this month, a motorist jumped a red light near Dubai College, on Al Sufouh Road, and rammed into a tram that was undergoing trial runs. There were no injuries.
"Please respect the tram rules and regulations as anyone who drives through a red light at a road-tram intersection will receive a big fine," the RTA warned.
The Al Sufouh Tram project is the first of its kind outside Europe, as it will be powered by electricity through the tracks, with no overhead cables.
The first phase will run along a 10.6-kilometre stretch from Dubai Marina to the tram depot near Dubai Police Academy. The network will initially have 11 trams running through 17 stations, with another 14 trains in the second phase.
Several new road signs and driving regulations are being introduced to ensure people share the roads safely with trams.
Learner drivers are being trained on 10 new road signs and seven new markings that will take effect when the Dubai Tram begins operating later this year.
Driving schools have introduced mandatory classes to teach students how to interpret the signs and avoid accidents.
The fine structure was announced at the beginning of the year but RTA is now stepping up its awareness drive.
pkannan@thenational.ae
