As the new school year begins, the Royal Oman Police (ROP) has implemented a comprehensive traffic management plan aimed at enhancing safety and easing congestion near schools throughout Oman. The initiative, launched ahead of the academic calendar, focuses on increasing police presence during peak school hours to better regulate traffic flow and monitor violations.

The Directorate-General of Traffic will deploy additional personnel around school zones during morning and afternoon rush periods to address traffic challenges and reduce risks to students and other road users. Staff Colonel Salim bin Mohammed al Harrasi, Assistant Director-General of Traffic, highlighted ongoing coordination with relevant authorities to identify and target highly congested areas that require focused oversight.

Colonel al Harrasi emphasized that the success of the initiative hinges on the cooperation and awareness of parents, students, and school bus drivers. He underscored the dangers associated with traffic offenses in school vicinities, including speeding, inattentive driving such as using mobile phones, unsafe overtaking maneuvers, and failure to yield to pedestrians. According to the officer, such behaviors significantly increase the likelihood of accidents and injuries.

Additionally, the ROP cautioned against indiscriminate parking, particularly in front of school entrances and pedestrian crossings, noting that such practices obstruct the movement of students and school buses and compromise safety.

Attention was also drawn to school bus safety, with authorities urging drivers to observe passenger limits, ensure students are clear of the vehicle before moving, and verify buses are empty after each trip. Compliance with speed limits and careful supervision during student boarding and disembarking were also stressed as key measures to protect young passengers.

The Royal Oman Police called on the community at large to engage actively in upholding traffic regulations around schools. Officials stressed that collective responsibility is essential for maintaining a secure environment for students as they travel to and from their educational institutions.