What’s On has details of Dubai Police new tool being used to combat parking in Dubai, such as parking in disabled bays, a problem if you own a car in Dubai.

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Dubai Police have a unveiled a new tool in the fight against rogue parking by motorists across the region, known as The Sergeant.

According to statistics provided by the Dubai Traffic Police, almost 8,500 fines – Dhs1,000 and four black points – were issued last year to drivers who had used parking bays reserved for those with special needs.

But now, the Police are seeking patent and copyright on a monitoring device, the first of its kind, which is fitted with a sensor, a video, a still camera, 3G internet and a warning device, that will be installed in collaboration with the RTA. When drivers pull into the space a loud beep will be emitted for 20 seconds and after which if the car is still stationed in the spot, a photo will be taken and a fine registered.

“Taking a special needs person’s parking space has a psychological effect on them,” said Major General Al Mazein, the Dubai Police Chief. “If people are not willing to protect the rights of people with special needs, then we [Dubai Police] will protect their rights.”

Speaking to 7Days, a staff member at the Autism Trust Foundation School Dubai hailed the initiative, predicting that they would definitely help eradicate this anti-social behaviour.

“In Dubai Mall the handicapped spots are always taken by people without handicapped tags,” she added. “They have to install the radars in all of the malls. It will help us and other schools like us. It becomes easier for the children.”

It’s the latest new tech initiative from the police force, who last month revealled they were in the process of securing a deal to use Google Glass. The new technology, which isn’t widely available in the UAE yet, is essentially a small camera and viewing monitor mounted onto traditionally-shaped spectacles. It allows wearers to access Google tools like search and maps, and also, more relevantly to the police, take photos and record video.