Abu Dhabi Municipality removes dirty cars in crackdown on messy streets

The National -- Dozens of vehicles have been taken off the streets after being found to be dirty or left unattended for extended periods of time.

Abu Dhabi Municipality said 33 had been impounded in the most recent sweep, which is part of a broader campaign to tidy up the city's streets.

Fines of Dh3000 are issued to owners on their return.

Last year, the municipality warned drivers must keep their cars clean during the summer - including if they are on holiday - or risk being caught up in the crackdown.

Inspectors handed out 500 fines between April and July, with some drivers complaining they received no warning.

Last September, Dubai Municipality said it had towed away 12,000 vehicles that appeared to be abandoned or were too dirty.