Unlikely though it was, I was actually asked during an event this month about whether I remembered Covid. How long ago that time of masks and online cooking lessons seems.
It is four years on since it brought the world to a halt. And how easily we forget how millions of people’s lives – and this is no understatement – were saved and protected while fleets were mobilised to bring help and vital supplies to them.
I mention this, not just because we just passed the fourth anniversary of those momentous months, but because for a few days in April, the region was once again batting down the hatches as professional drivers were asked to get back on the road.
There is no doubt that somewhere in the future I will be asked, where were you when the great flood arrived in 2024? I’ll probably reply that unless you were in the UAE or Oman at the time, the chances are you were watching videos of Patrols making waves and pushing past stranded vehicles on YouTube while planning a move to a higher floor in your apartment building.
In light of the recent catastrophic flooding in Dubai, an unprecedented event that has challenged our community in numerous ways, it’s crucial to recognise and appreciate the vital role played by trucks and rescue fleets during these difficult times.
These vehicles and their dedicated teams have been at the forefront of emergency response efforts, showcasing resilience and the critical importance of disaster preparedness.
During the floods, roads transformed into rivers, and many residential areas became isolated. Standard vehicles were unable to navigate the submerged and debris-filled streets. It was the trucks, especially those equipped with high ground clearance and robust capabilities, that were able to traverse these challenging conditions. These trucks were soon clearing water, allowing people to get back to normality as quickly as possible.
Moreover, the rescue fleets played a pivotal role in the safety. They provided an essential link between the community and the broader emergency response framework.
The efficiency displayed by the operators of these vehicles remind us of the importance of having well-maintained and equipped rescue fleets. It also underscores the need for continuous investment in emergency preparedness, including training for responders and the acquisition of technology that can handle extreme conditions.
As we move forward, let us take this opportunity to reassess and reinforce our response strategies. Supporting and enhancing our truck fleets and rescue operations will not only improve our readiness for future emergencies but also signify our commitment to safeguarding our community’s well-being.
More immediately, communities are in debted to the work of our drivers and fleet teams. And, like Coved, let’s hope that gets as much recognition as a few daring Patrol drivers.
