Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA) and the Environment Protection and Development Authority (EPDA) launch the pilot phase of the air quality monitoring sensors project in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, in order to serve environmental sustainability in the emirate, based on the vision of the Ras Al Khaimah Government 2030 and in line with the Year of Sustainability 2023 and the UAE’s hosting of the COP28 Conference. The initiative is a pioneer in providing the relevant authorities with real-time data on the quality of outdoor and interior air by using public transportation buses in the emirate that travel 86 kilometers at various times and locations throughout the day.
The initiative, according to H.E. Eng. Esmaeel Hassan Al Blooshi, Director General of RAKTA, is the first of its kind at the UAE level in the field of transportation and is a continuation of efforts made jointly by RAKTA and EPDA to strengthen the environmental system surrounding transportation and the emissions that are produced by it. During the initiative, smart sensors will be installed to monitor the air quality of the environment surrounding public transport, through which the air quality will be measured during the movement of the bus and its stops at each station.
H.E. further mentioned that this technology has a variety of properties, some of which include the capability of gathering real-time data throughout the day on variables including air temperature, humidity, carbon emissions, TVOC, EtOH, and IAQ.
Dr. Saif Al Ghais, Director General of the Environment Protection and Development Authority in Ras Al Khaimah, stated that EPDA is committed to providing innovative and distinguished projects in the processes of conserving and protecting various environmental systems. The installation of AQ smart sensors in public transportation is a unique project that provides accurate data and readings on the quality of the surrounding air in different areas of Ras Al Khaimah. This project helps in developing strategies and conducting studies based on accurate scientific data, especially since these sensors provide real-time data on various weather indicators and carbon emissions.
Dr. Al Ghais emphasized that this project is considered one of the leading and distinguished projects that align with the goals of sustainable development, the strategic objectives of the EPDA, and the strategic visions of the government of Ras Al Khaimah and the United Arab Emirates. This project is also considered a model for strategic integration and cooperation between government institutions in Ras Al Khaimah, contributing to achieving sustainable development goals and providing a healthy environment enhanced by accurate data.
In this regard, RAKTA and EPDA signed a joint agreement of understanding to enhance strategic relations. The agreement included a number of important items for the two parties, including studying the air quality strategy, implementing environmental awareness programs, joint community initiatives, exchanging data and knowledge, and benefiting from the experiences of both parties in the environmental field.
