1,630 people moved to safer places in 152 rescue operations

Muscat: Responding to hundreds of distress calls following the recent low-pressure conditions, which led to heavy rains and flash floods in Oman, the Royal Oman Police (ROP) carried out a total of 152 operations leading to the rescue of 1,630 individuals over the past three days across various governorates.

The operations were carried out after the ROP Operations Centre and Operation Departments were inundated with distress calls. These calls have ranged from reports of individuals stranded in rainwater or vehicles to requests for aid and reports of fire incidents.

Besides the rescue operations across different governorates, the operations were done alongside the crucial role in transporting medical crews.

Tragically, amid these efforts, 19 lives were lost, with four individuals still unaccounted for.

Brigadier Mohammed bin Nasser Al Kindi, Director General of Operations, acknowledged the relentless dedication of ROP personnel deployed across affected areas.

Their efforts not only included rescue operations but also encompassed traffic regulation, security maintenance, and restoring normalcy, achieved through close collaboration with governmental agencies and private entities.

He highlighted the tireless efforts of the Directorate General of Operations, particularly the Operations Centre and departments in governorates, which operate ceaselessly to provide timely responses in coordination with other ROP formations and units.

Expressing gratitude, the Director General extended thanks to citizens and residents for their cooperation and assistance in rescue efforts.

He also issued a stern reminder for everyone to exercise utmost caution, especially with children, urging them to refrain from swimming in areas affected by running waters caused by wadis.

Meanwhile, in response to the prevailing weather conditions, the Ministry of Education has empowered director-general’s of education across all governorates to assess each school’s situation and determine the official duty mechanism for Thursday, 18 April 2024. This measure aims to ensure the safety of students and teaching staff.

The decision follows the diligent follow-up conducted by the National Committee for Emergency Management at the Ministry of Education on the weather’s impacts.