Algerian authorities have suspended fines for drivers who do not have a fire extinguisher in their vehicles, due to supply shortages. The obligation to have a fire extinguisher in vehicles is part of new road code regulations that came into effect recently. However, the implementation of this regulation has been hampered by limited availability of fire extinguishers in the market.
The new road code classifies the lack of certain safety equipment, including fire extinguishers, as a second-degree offense, punishable by a fine of 4,000 Algerian dinars. However, due to supply shortages, authorities have decided to suspend the application of fines until the market is adequately supplied. This decision aims to allow drivers to purchase fire extinguishers before controls related to this obligation resume.
The shortage of fire extinguishers has led to a significant increase in prices, with some models selling for between 3,000 and 7,000 dinars, while others can cost up to 12,000 dinars. This has caused difficulties for drivers who are required to have a fire extinguisher in their vehicles. The suspension of fines is intended to alleviate the pressure on drivers who are unable to find the required equipment.
The decision to suspend fines was taken after several complaints from drivers and parliamentarians. On September 27, Deputy Bachir Brahimi wrote to Interior and Transport Minister Saïd Sayoud, requesting a temporary suspension of fines for drivers without fire extinguishers. Brahimi argued that drivers should not be penalized for not having an extinguisher when they are unable to find one.
The suspension of fines does not mean that the obligation to have a fire extinguisher in vehicles has been lifted. The authorities have made it clear that the obligation remains in place and will be enforced once the market is adequately supplied. The measure is intended to allow drivers to comply with the regulation without being penalized.
The shortage of fire extinguishers has caused significant inconvenience to drivers, who are required to have the equipment in their vehicles. The authorities have urged drivers to be patient and to purchase fire extinguishers as soon as they become available. The suspension of fines is intended to provide temporary relief to drivers who are struggling to find the required equipment.
The Algerian government has taken steps to address the shortage of fire extinguishers and ensure that drivers can comply with the regulation. However, no timeline has been given for when the market is expected to be adequately supplied. In the meantime, drivers who do not have a fire extinguisher in their vehicles will not be fined.
Key points
- Algerian authorities suspend fines for drivers without fire extinguishers in vehicles due to supply shortages.
- The obligation to have a fire extinguisher in vehicles is part of new road code regulations.
- The suspension of fines does not mean that the obligation has been lifted, but rather that it will be enforced once the market is adequately supplied.
