CICPA launches 'Bihar 2013'

The Critical Infrastructure and Coastal Protection Authority (CICPA) revealed the full details of its third major water safety campaign yesterday. The campaign will include a number of exciting and interactive features dedicated to the promotion of safety, security and protection across the Emirate's maritime areas. Under the new partnership-themed banner of: "Be aware... Be alert... Enjoy safely," CICPA is extending its commitment to the security and protection of all UAE's citizens. The campaign, known as Bihar (Arabic for 'seas'), aims at raising awareness on maritime safety and sea regulations, and is targeted at all sea goers in the UAE. Additionally, Bihar aims at reinforcing CICPA's role as a national entity which aims at protecting members of society. The high profile campaign will provide opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy special beach events across the UAE. One of the main aims of the campaign is to also raise awareness of the dedicated "996" maritime emergency number; this will ensure that the residents and visitors of the UAE know what to do and who to contact for emergencies related to the sea. This year's campaign will include an extensive schools' visit program, fishermen engagement forums and a Goodwill Ambassador Program, which will include: Ali Belhabala (the Formula One Power Boat champion), Omar Abdel Rahman (a leading UAE football player), and Ali Al Mansori, president of the Abu Dhabi fisherman cooperative. Colonel Salem Al Kindi, Head of the Bihar Committee, said "Our goal is to integrate the Bihar initiative and the 996 number in the hearts and minds of everyone who lives in or comes to enjoy the UAE and its abundant coastline and associated facilities" The Bihar campaign will also renew CICPA's focus on promoting unified licensing centres for sea vessels - a result of a partnership agreement with the Environment Agency and the Department of Transport, to facilitate licensing procedures and regulatory services for sea goers which will help streamline operations and provide a one-stop option for people requiring licensing information and assistance The Critical Infrastructure and Coastal Protection Authority (CICPA) is committed and responsible for providing security and protection for all critical infrastructure and promoting the safety regulations of the relevant authorities to ensure sustainable socio-economic development for the country CICPA's role is to follow and evaluate all security procedures related to the UAE's critical assets including onshore and offshore oil rigs to mitigate any threats. It also enforces the regulations for marine safety and environmental protection in collaboration with related government and national bodies.