The Aoun Qatar rescue team is pivotal in assisting stranded drivers in the desert, particularly during the cooler months when traffic increases. With 100-200 rescue calls weekly, they utilize specialized equipment and are often involved in complex rescue operations. The commitment of the team members underscores the importance of their service in ensuring the safety of individuals in rugged terrains.
In Qatar, the Aoun Qatar rescue team plays an essential role in ensuring the safety of individuals venturing into the desert during cooler months. Recently, Raghdan Salem Zodeh, a Syrian living in Qatar, was rescued from shifting sands after becoming stuck near Sealine resort. The timely response of volunteers equipped with towing cables led to his safe extraction after a mere ten-minute wait.
Weekends draw many expatriates, tourists, and locals to the expansive deserts of Qatar, where they engage in off-roading adventures. However, the increase in desert traffic correlates with a rise in rescue situations, as more drivers encounter challenges in the dunes. Zodeh’s incident was typical, with many individuals experiencing similar predicaments at Sealine.
The Aoun Qatar team, supervised by the government, operates alongside three other volunteer organizations dedicated to desert rescues. Employing a well-trained group of 35 members, they respond to approximately 100-200 rescue calls weekly. Their readiness includes carrying specialized equipment such as towing kits, spare tires, medical supplies, and water to assist stranded motorists.
Some rescues prove more complex, necessitating coordination with helicopters and divers for submerged vehicles. Team leader Tareq Ali Saleh highlighted the urgency involved in certain operations, particularly when responding to distress calls under challenging circumstances. Recently, they received a last-minute request for a vehicle almost fully submerged, requiring them to wait for the tide to recede.
A poignant reminder of the risks involved came when a recent call lacked specific locational details, resulting in the tragic loss of a stranded driver by the time assistance arrived. As daylight faded at Sealine, another routine call brought volunteers to assist Hassan Rageb, who found himself ensnared in the sands with his caravan.
Saad Abdulrehman Ansari, a newer member of Aoun Qatar, expressed his commitment to helping stranded individuals, stating that he felt pride in aiding those in need throughout the rugged areas of the desert.
The Aoun Qatar rescue team plays a critical role in providing necessary assistance to those who venture into the desert landscape, especially during the peak recreational season. With their volunteer efforts, specialized training, and essential equipment, they are instrumental in ensuring safety on the often challenging terrains of Qatar. However, the rise in incidents highlights the inherent risks of desert exploration, emphasizing the need for awareness and preparedness among adventurers.
Original Source: www.al-monitor.com
