“What is happening on our roads should be a part of everybody’s concern. Misuse of vehicles by different categories of society is irritating and worrying as it results in the death of many. While we believe life and death are destined by Allah, at the same time Allah’s order is not to kill ourselves. While some may die in these accidents, others, who remain alive, may be disabled and a burden for himself, his family and his society. Therefore, we should join hands and be aware of this issue.”

During his speech to the citizens, His Majesty the Sultan urged everyone to make this issue the subject of talk with families. Road safety should be discussed, and public awareness should be stressed in order to limit the phenomenon (road accidents), which is a tax for what is called progress, growth and civilization (modernization), said His Majesty. “Each thing has a tax, but this kind of tax should be seriously considered”, His Majesty added.

His Majesty continued to say, “These issues may be ascribed to a number of reasons, but the human factor is the main contributor to them. It may be negligence in maintaining one’s vehicle or a desire to reach one’s destination as fast as possible. But it is better to reach safe than on a stretcher or ending up at the emergency department in hospitals.”

His Majesty the Sultan underlined the importance of this issue and said, “I put this issue in this way and advise everyone to attach high and great importance to it. No doubt that all sectors of the Omani society are listening to what I am saying from this blessed place. This is one of the issues that the Omani society is still suffering from.”