*Qatar deploys new vessels for maritime safety, security

Qatar has launched a vessel monitoring project, which seeks not only to enhance maritime security but also preserve marine environment.
The project, launched from the Pearl – Qatar, comes within the framework of the Ministry of Transport and Communication’s (MoTC) effort to develop maritime transport works across the country in line with commitments, conventions and duties advocated and sought by the International Maritime Organisation.


An interior view of a monitoring vessel

The new vessels would be used for carrying out several tasks that contribute to enhancing maritime safety such as investigating maritime accidents and inspecting Qatari seagoing vessels to ensure meeting all legal requirements and safety and security equipment according to the Law on Maritime Vessels.
They would also inspect foreign vessels at the anchorage area to ensure compliance with maritime safety requirements enunciated in international maritime conventions, in addition to following up on the navigational aid system and detecting any marine pollution and reporting it to the bodies concerned.
The monitoring vessels, to be deployed on Qatari waters and ports, would support the security and safety of maritime navigation and the protection of marine environment.
Dr Saleh bin Fetais al-Marri, Assistant Undersecretary of Maritime Transport Affairs at MoTC, said the monitoring vessels, which began work already, are among the most modern in the world, using high technology and would enhance ensuring maritime safety and security and protecting lives and property at sea as well as preserving the marine environment.
The maritime transport sector at the ministry would continue work on keeping up with latest developments in transport and navigation industry, in addition to launching projects that support the country’s economic activities and serve citizens and residents, in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030.
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