The sands of Bausher are a hotspot for adventure-seekers, especially high school children and college students, riding up and down the dunes on quad bikes.
But there is one problem: rules are flouted by both riders as well as companies that rent out these bikes. Many are found riding these vehicles without helmets, throwing to wind all safety norms.
Although dune-bashing was banned by the Muscat Municipality in the area, people have moved to areas around this sandy mountain.
Children below the age of 16 years are legally not permitted to ride the quad bikes. However, they are allowed if a guardian signs a declaration form on their behalf.
Shops that rent out quad bikes have been asked by the Royal Oman Police (ROP) to insist on proof of age before allowing people to ride them.
Many accidents were reported in the past, including the recent death of three people - a school kid, an adult and a teenager. They lost their lives while playing the sport, a major tourist puller.
“Safety standards are ignored at the Bausher dunes and accidents are common,” said a citizen who runs a supermarket nearby.
A student from a well-known school succumbed to his injuries when he lost control and fell the bike. He was apparently not wearing a helmet.
It is not known how he was able to hire the bike.
Recently, a man lost control of his four-wheel drive while meandering on top of the sand dune. The vehicle rolled down the hill and he was found dead.
In another grim incident, two boys were riding over the Bausher dunes with no safety gear and while descending, their quad bike caught fire. Both suffered high-intensity burns and are yet to recover.
Lack of designated areas for various activities, improper organising and lack of knowledge about the terrain and sports are said to be the causes, according to Hamed al Bahry, an HR expert.
“First of all, there should be an area designated by the Ministry of Sports and Tourism for dune-bashing. And these sites should be managed by professional people,” he said.
Another reason for casualties is reckless driving. Many youngsters feel they are daredevils when they ride these bikes, he added.
Kabeer Yousuf
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