Authorities in Abu Dhabi have seized 188 abandoned vehicles in parking lots and public squares as part of an extensive campaign to preserve the appearance of the city.

The Abu Dhabi City Municipality impounded the vehicles and also issued 175 warnings to owners of these vehicles for distorting the appearance of the city.

The move stemmed from a campaign launched early last month in areas falling within the purview of Al Bateen Municipal Centre, including districts on Abu Dhabi Island.

The campaign aimed to remind vehicle owners not to leave their cars unattended and uncleaned in public areas, parking spaces and squares for extended periods. It also reflects the commitment of the Department of Municipal Affairs and Transport to maintain the cleanliness of cities, improve the general outlook, enhance security and safety, reduce environmental pollution and disseminate environmental awareness among community members.

The campaign is pursuant to Law No 2/2012 governing the overall appearance, health and public tranquillity in the emirate of Abu Dhabi, and the Executive Regulation. The law enables the civic body to issue warning notices to violators, advising them to remove their vehicles within three days of the warning. Once the grace period expires, the municipality will notify a car towing company to remove the violating vehicles, including trailers, boats and the like, and to the car impounding yard in Al Wathba where appropriate measures will be taken.