Pickup driver fined, licence withheld for obstructing ambulance
Following the video, the Transport Ministry said an investigation had been launched into the incident.
A pickup truck driver has had his licence withheld and has been fined for failing to give way to an emergency ambulance, authorities said.
The incident came to public attention after a video circulated on social media showing a pickup truck unloading goods on a road while vehicles behind, including an ambulance, sounded their horns. The pickup remained stopped until unloading was completed, after which it moved on.
Following the video, the Transport Ministry said an investigation had been launched into the incident.
“The ministry is investigating the matter. If action is required, the ministry will take action against the person,” the ministry said.
Police said the driver’s licence was confiscated and the driver was fined MVR 750. The case will also be referred to the Transport Ministry, which will decide whether further action is required.
Under the law, motorists are required to give way to ambulances, which are used to transport patients requiring urgent medical care.
Concerns have been raised in recent weeks over motorists failing to give way to emergency vehicles. Two road accidents linked to ambulances being obstructed have been reported in Addu within the past month.
The Addu Equatorial Hospital said in a statement on Monday that the accidents occurred because ambulances were not given space on the road. One recent incident in Hithadhoo caused damage to an ambulance transporting injured persons.
