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Taxis in Dubai to soon have security devices

He said that there might be some restriction on carrying baggage.

The official said that the department was considering the measures following recent incidents of violence and the demands raised by taxi drivers.

Recently, cabbies in the emirate boycotted night shifts after a taxi driver survived an attempt on his life by assailants posing as passengers earlier this month.

In May, a Metro driver was found dead in an isolated area between Al Quoz and Al Barsha.

Ammar bin Tamim, Director of the Dubai Taxi Department at RTA, told Khaleej Times that the department was considering ways to enhance security with the help of police.

"We are in touch with police to devise various safety methods for taxi drivers," said Bin Tamim.

The system being planned may include installation of a security alarm or buzzer which will be linked to a police station.

"This can be used by a driver if he feels he is in danger," said Bin Tamim.

Besides, hand baggage might also be restricted to the boot of the vehicle.

"We already have the Global Positioning System installed in vehicles through which we can locate its position," he added.

However, Bin Tamim rejected taxi drivers' demand to install security cameras.

"Cameras are only possible in such modes of public transport as buses."

"We consider taxis to be relatively private. Besides, women passengers may not be comfortable with the arrangement," he said.

• UAE