7 days ago
Refrain from driving over green plains
Salalah, July 15
The Public Prosecution has issued a firm warning to citizens and tourists, urging people to refrain from driving vehicles over the green plains and meadows of Dhofar Governorate during khareef season. The act is deemed a legal offence and is punishable under Article (4) of Local Order No (2/2016), which regulates vehicle movement and public parking in the region.
Authorities say off-road driving across grasslands and mountainous green areas damages fragile vegetation and disturbs the governorate's ecological balance.
In a recent public advisory, the Public Prosecution highlighted the environmental consequences of such behaviour and emphasised the need for compliance with local laws to preserve Dhofar's natural heritage.
Local residents have echoed support for stronger environmental protections. Salem bin Nasser al Maashani, a citizen from Salalah, said: 'We ask visitors to respect Dhofar's environment. This greenery is a rare and temporary national treasure that must be safeguarded by everyone.'
Younis bin Issa al Balushi, a visitor from Muscat, welcomed the awareness campaign. 'I wasn't aware that driving on the plains is prohibited,' he said. 'Now, with these messages, we better understand the rules and the importance of abiding by them.' Officials confirmed that Dhofar Municipality, in coordination with the Public Prosecution and environmental agencies, will intensify field inspections and awareness campaigns across media platforms throughout the season.
These measures are part of Oman's broader sustainability goals under Vision 2040, which prioritises the conservation of natural ecosystems and the promotion of responsible, eco-friendly tourism.
