Jassem Ibrahim Fakhro
When an article on traffic fines was published in Al Sharq newspaper, we were the first to call the public relations department of the Interior Ministry on this issue and explain our point of view.
I appreciate the department’s professionalism and respect for the opinions of others, and this is what distinguishes us from many other countries, as we have a special relationship between the interior ministry and members of society, based on respect and trust.
In fact, I did not intend to accuse anyone as much as I intended to correct the course of events and highlight some traffic-related issues for the sake of finding solutions.
The issue is more important than taking people’s money through traffic fines, because the traffic has a direct relation with people’s lives. We know that the fines are not a state tax wherein what is given with the right hand is taken away with the left hand.
However, we wanted to say that excessive fines are not the solution; I see them as a sign of failure of the traffic campaigns that have been carried out for years.
Yes, traffic fines are important, but excessive fines are not the solution to traffic problems. It is enough to know from traffic signs that the street is under radar surveillance, and the behaviour of drivers will be better, and whoever violates driving rules will be punished by law, which is fair.
I have noticed how visitors to Doha from different countries are impressed by the traffic signs, which show the state’s concern for its citizens.
I suggest hiring fresh, qualified staff specialising in traffic management, and organising professional awareness campaigns in various languages to evaluate behaviour, change perceptions and raise awareness. Instead of being organised intermittently, such campaigns should be carried out for not less than three years.
Through media campaigns based on research and studies, and regulations and laws, we will certainly reach the desired goal.
There are several things that must be studied and taken into account other than fines and surveillance cameras.
The Ministry of the Interior, being responsible for managing traffic, should assign a research organisation to do a study to evaluate media campaigns in terms of the means, content and goals.
Certainly, the Ministry of Interior will get data which it can use in the next phase. The ministry has men who are models for others in specialisation and leadership.
This view does not negate the role of traffic management. Our country has given us the right to express our views and the views of the community in order to reach better solutions.
It is the duty of the authorities, as a matter of transparency and good faith, to look at things from a logical and neutral perspective. We, as media workers, community members and government staff, should complement each other; our goal is one — to improve our country and ensure the safety of its citizens and guests.
