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Traffic violations plunge 72%, road discipline hailed

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By Faten Omar & B Izzak

KUWAIT: The interior ministry said on Tuesday that main traffic offenses monitored by cameras dropped by a massive 72 percent in the first week of applying the new traffic law on April 22. The ministry said cameras captured just 6,342 violations between April 22-28, compared to 22,651 violations in the week between April 15-21.

Offenses of failing to use seatbelts dropped by 71 percent from 18,208 to 5,176 in the same period, while using mobile phones while driving dived 86 percent to just 422 violations from 2,962. Offenses of not abiding by road lanes dropped from 1,081 to 700, a slide of 35 percent, while driving against the traffic decreased to just 44 from 400, an 89 percent decline. The ministry thanked motorists for abiding by the new traffic law.

A week into the new traffic law, drivers across the country are already feeling its impact — from noticeable improvements in road discipline to concerns over steep penalties and unresolved traffic issues. Kuwait Times spoke with motorists to gauge a range of reactions to the changes reshaping the nation’s roads.

Duaa Sami said that after several days of the new traffic law being enforced, she noticed a level of discipline on the roads she hadn’t seen before — from adherence to speed limits and seatbelt use to a clear reduction in reckless drivers, particularly those driving pickups, who were previously a common source of complaints. Ali Al-Radaan remarked that while the new law mainly addresses speeding and mobile phone usage, it fails to tackle traffic congestion and the overwhelming number of vehicles on the roads. He questioned whether every driver truly deserves to hold a license, suggesting that those with a high record of accidents should be required to retake their driving tests.

He added that in the US and Europe, passing a driving test is extremely difficult due to the rigorous focus on vehicle control, adherence to laws and ensuring the safety of others, expressing hope that Kuwait would adopt similarly strict standards alongside ongoing awareness campaigns.

Fahad Al-Fadhli praised the ministry of interior’s efforts in curbing violations but pointed out that improvements are needed on the Sixth Ring Road, particularly near Sabah Al-Nasser, where faded ground markings cause vehicles to weave dangerously, leading to accidents. He also called for expanding the use of traffic cameras into residential areas to deter reckless driving, highlighting concerns about taxis and delivery bikes speeding on highways, as well as abandoned buses and trucks in residential neighborhoods. He emphasized that fixing damaged roads is critical, as they pose major safety risks.

Meanwhile, Abdullah Hamdan observed that with the new law, the presence of traffic police on the streets has significantly decreased — by about 90 percent, in his view — and questioned why traffic officers are not more actively stopping and ticketing drivers who commit blatant violations such as reckless overtaking, turning without signaling and sudden stops by taxi drivers.

Majed Ziyad pointed out that people need more awareness about the purpose of strict traffic penalties, which is to ensure safer roads free from sudden stops and collisions. He noted that the decrease in accidents and violations is unsurprising, given that fines have increased tenfold, combined with a three-month public awareness campaign — both of which he credits as key reasons for the improvement.

However, some drivers believe that certain violations are excessive. Ahmad Azzam argued that if he is sitting at a red light with his car at a complete stop and briefly checks his phone, it should not be considered a violation. He pointed out the contradiction in penalizing drivers for phone use while allowing large, distracting digital billboards along the highways. He also added: “Given Kuwait’s harsh desert climate, drinking water while driving should not be considered a violation.”

Azzam criticized the high fines and suggested that Kuwait adopt Saudi Arabia’s approach of periodically offering discounted traffic fine payments. Furthermore, he highlighted the issue of faded lane markings on some roads, which makes it difficult for drivers to stay in their lanes. He stressed that public vehicles must also comply with the new traffic law, noting that buses and taxis often stop anywhere they please, disrupting traffic and nearly causing accidents.

Passant Hisham shared a different perspective, stating that since the new traffic laws were enforced, driving has become a source of constant anxiety for her. “Since the new traffic laws were enforced, driving has become a source of constant anxiety — so overwhelming that I sometimes end up putting myself at greater risk just to avoid breaking the rules,” she said.

“Every time I approach a green light, I find myself hesitating, slowing down in fear that it might turn yellow. And when it does turn yellow, I panic, either stopping too quickly or rushing through it, not knowing what to do. In those moments, I feel stuck between two terrifying outcomes: either get arrested or get hit by the car behind me,” she added.

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410 students benefit from Educational Care Bank project

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KUWAIT: Al-Safa Charitable Society announced that 410 students across various educational stages have benefited from the Educational Care Bank project for the 2024-2025 academic year. The initiative, implemented in collaboration with the General Secretariat of Endowments, provided a total of KD 100,000 (approximately $330,000) in educational support within Kuwait. Chairman of Al-Safa’s Board of Directors Mohammad Al-Shaya said in a press statement on Monday that the project reflects a shared commitment to supporting future generations by creating an educational environment free from financial obstacles. He emphasized that the initiative also aims to alleviate the financial burden faced by low-income families amid ongoing economic challenges.

Al-Shaya praised the General Secretariat of Endowments for its continued sponsorship of impactful and innovative projects that serve the community, particularly those focused on education. He noted that the Secretariat’s support for this program underscores its strong belief in education as a cornerstone for societal advancement and sustainable development. He added that Al-Safa Charitable Society, through this partnership, seeks to nurture a knowledgeable and responsible generation capable of contributing meaningfully to national development. The project, he explained, targets students who face difficulty in paying tuition fees, reaffirming the association’s belief in the right to education for all—without discrimination or financial barriers. — KUNA

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97,000 reverts and counting: IPC’s role in spreading Islam

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KUWAIT: Although it has been three months since the end of Ramadan, Islamic da’wah in Kuwait is far from limited to the holy month. Through organizations like the Islam Presentation Committee (IPC) — one of the country’s largest and oldest da’wah institutions — outreach efforts continue year-round. Since its founding in 1987, IPC has helped more than 97,000 people embrace Islam, including 2,702 in the past year alone. With over 3.4 million expatriates living in Kuwait — many from diverse religious backgrounds — the country often becomes more than just a place of work.

For many, it becomes the first space where they encounter Islam in a meaningful way. IPC’s efforts extend beyond traditional settings like mosques and religious centers. Thanks to the organization’s efforts, this Ramadan Kuwait did experience a significant increase in conversions to Islam, marking the highest number of conversions in the past seven years. Approximately 730 individuals from various nationalities embraced Islam by the 29th day of Ramadan.

This achievement is attributed to the efforts of 78 male and female preachers and the success of the “Change Their Lives” campaign, which included lectures and the distribution of preaching materials across the country. Much of IPC’s outreach focuses on laborers and domestic workers, meeting them in everyday environments such as markets, salons, workplaces, hospitals, farms, labor inspection offices, and even deportation centers.

Following initial outreach, new reverts begin a structured learning journey starting with a “Basic Islam” course that covers essential beliefs and practices. As they progress, students can enroll in advanced courses on Quranic interpretation, Tajweed, Islamic jurisprudence, Prophetic biography, and Islamic history — all offered free of charge.

Available in 14 languages

Arabic language classes are also available for non-native speakers, including non-Muslims who wish to understand Islamic texts or culture. IPC also supports lifelong Muslims, recognizing that many — especially those from non-Arabic-speaking countries — may never have had the chance to study Islam formally. “We don’t just teach the students — we create a community for them,” said Haya Alawadhi, head of IPC’s Salmiya branch. “A good circle of friends, emotional support from teachers and staff, and even financial assistance when needed.”

Many new Muslims face personal challenges — including separation from family and friends. IPC responds by fostering a family-like environment where instructors and fellow students offer compassion, inclusion and support. After carefully assessing individual needs, IPC also provides financial aid and job placement assistance to ease the transition. With lectures and materials available in 14 languages, the organization ensures accessibility for newcomers of all backgrounds. In 2024 alone, the committee recorded 8,455 students from 39 nationalities enrolled in its programs.

“We don’t call each other by titles”

“We don’t call each other by titles,” Alawadhi added. “We say ‘sister’ and ‘brother.’ You might find an American sitting next to an Asian or a European, and everyone is treated the same. If someone walks in with bias, it fades once they become part of this place.” To further its reach, IPC has expanded into digital outreach, offering social media campaigns, interactive online lectures, and Islamic content to engage younger audiences and remote learners.

IPC’s da’wah efforts are not limited to blue-collar communities. The organization also engages diplomats, professionals, and high-profile guests, presenting them with traditional Kuwaiti gift boxes that include a translated Quran, a tourism brochure, and Islamic educational materials. In 2024 alone, IPC organized around 881 training courses. Alawadhi also shared that IPC trains new Muslims to become future Islamic educators and preachers. “Some of our most active preachers today were once IPC students who converted to Islam,” she added. IPC runs around 14 branches and centers that are spread across Kuwait’s governorates.

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Oil Ministry highlights nuclear radiation risks, underscores preventive measures

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KUWAIT: The Ministry of Oil affirmed that nuclear radiation remains one of the most serious health and environmental challenges of the modern era, emphasizing Kuwait’s strong commitment to addressing this issue through an integrated regulatory framework, well-structured emergency plans, and advanced scientific monitoring networks covering various regions of the country. These efforts aim to ensure the highest standards of environmental and public health safety.

This statement was made by Sheikha Tamader Khaled Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Director of Public Relations and Media at the Ministry of Oil, during a health awareness seminar held Monday under the title “Risks and Damages Resulting from Nuclear Reactors and Their Impact on Human Health.” The seminar is part of the ministry’s ongoing initiative to raise community awareness and promote a culture of prevention among oil sector employees.

Sheikha Tamader lauded the efforts of governmental and technical agencies in enhancing public understanding of nuclear radiation dangers and preventive measures. She highlighted the role of such scientific forums in fostering a sustainable preventive culture across both public and private sectors. She added that the Ministry of Oil, in collaboration with relevant authorities, is actively conducting educational programs and specialized workshops to raise awareness about nuclear reactor risks and radiation leakage, while developing national infrastructure for preparedness and response to radiological and nuclear emergencies.

She stressed that prevention begins with awareness, and investing in education, training, and readiness is key to protecting people and the environment. She called for continued support of scientific and awareness initiatives and the strengthening of institutional cooperation among state ministries and regulatory bodies to guarantee community safety and environmental sustainability. In a related address, Salem Al-Azmi, Head of Radiology at the Radiation Protection Department of the Ministry of Health, reviewed the health risks associated with nuclear reactors, their operating mechanisms, and the preventive measures adopted locally and internationally.

Al-Azmi explained that nuclear reactors are among the world’s most important sources of energy due to their ability to generate large amounts of electricity efficiently, but they carry serious health and environmental risks if not managed under strict controls. He described nuclear reactors as power plants that produce electricity through nuclear fission — a process where an atom’s nucleus splits into smaller nuclei, releasing thermal energy that heats a coolant, usually water, to create steam. The steam then drives turbines connected to electric generators.

He noted that while nuclear power plants operate similarly to conventional power plants that burn coal, oil, or natural gas, the primary heat source in nuclear plants is atomic fission. He pointed out that nuclear energy has comparatively low environmental impact on Earth and natural resources.

Al-Azmi outlined the potential environmental hazards in the event of a radioactive leak, such as contamination of air, water, and soil with substances like cesium-137 and iodine-131. However, he reassured that these materials naturally degrade over time and that effective environmental rehabilitation and mitigation plans are in place. He highlighted that potential effects on wildlife and agriculture, including temporary declines in crop and animal quality, can be managed and mitigated through safety protocols and environmental restoration.

Regarding preventive actions, Al-Azmi advised sheltering indoors in well-sealed spaces, which can reduce radiation exposure by half, using closed basements or airtight shelters, and wearing protective masks for the nose and mouth. He also presented information on Iran’s Bushehr nuclear reactor, noting that it is solely dedicated to electricity generation with a capacity of 1,000 megawatts. The reactor operates under full international supervision, is non-military, does not produce nuclear weapons, and is located approximately 280 kilometers east of Kuwait. — KUNA

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