As classes resume at independent schools across the country today, heavy traffic is expected on most roads in Doha, especially early in the morning.
In view of this, officials have advised motorists to avoid roads that they expect to be congested so as to make the commute smoother for everyone.
The traffic department has repeatedly advised motorists to start as early as possible to reach their destination on time.
Besides, parents have been advised to send their children by school buses instead of their own vehicles to reduce congestion, particularly during the peak hours.
However, many parents still prefer to take their children to school in their own vehicles.
They point out that school buses often start too early and also bring students back home late.
This is because the buses have to cover a number of places while ferrying children.
“The school bus is certainly a good idea and can help reduce congestion on roads through collective transportation. However, it is exhausting and time-consuming as children have to spend at least one hour while going to school and another hour coming back. So, I prefer my private vehicle to ferry the children,” a local parent said.
The Central Municipal Council (CMC) recently issued a number of recommendations to enhance safety on buses used by independent schools, stressing the need to hire well-trained and qualified bus attendants.
In addition, the CMC recommended that school buses be suitably equipped to show educational movies and programmes for the benefit of students.
