At the scene of the accident in Al Hamriya Wharf, Dubai. DUBAI PORTS POLICE

A cargo vehicle carrying watermelons fell into the sea at the Al Hamriya Wharf in Dubai after the driver failed to take basic parking safety precautions, authorities said. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident, according to Dubai Ports Police on Tuesday (November 19). Colonel Ali Abdullah Al Qusib Al Naqbi, Deputy Director of the Ports Police Station, said the accident occurred when the driver exited the vehicle to talk with friends, leaving the transmission gear in neutral and failing to engage the handbrake. These oversights caused the vehicle to roll into the water. Divers from the Maritime Rescue Department, in coordination with the General Department of Transport and Rescue, quickly responded to recover the vehicle, Al Naqbi explained. “They secured the submerged vehicle with ropes attached to a crane and successfully lifted it back onto the wharf.” Al Naqbi emphasized that incidents like these are preventable with proper safety measures. “Drivers must always ensure their vehicles are in the ‘Park’ position and handbrakes are applied before stepping out,” he said, adding that regular vehicle maintenance is equally crucial. Despite the fall, the swift response of Dubai’s maritime rescue teams ensured minimal disruption. Marine security patrols, alongside a local maritime unit, assisted in the operation, ensuring the safety of the port’s operations. Residents and visitors were reminded of the importance of adhering to traffic regulations and exercising vigilance near water bodies. Authorities also encouraged the public to report emergencies by calling 999 and to use the "Sail Safely" app for maritime incident reporting. ICA/Expat Media
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