ROP launches traffic plan for new school year

MUSCAT: Ahead of the new school year, the Royal Oman Police (ROP) has activated a comprehensive traffic management plan to ensure safe and smooth access to schools across the Sultanate of Oman.
The Directorate-General of Traffic will intensify its field presence around schools during peak morning and afternoon hours to regulate vehicle flow, reduce congestion, and monitor violations.
Staff Colonel Salim bin Mohammed al Harrasi, Assistant Director-General of Traffic, said ongoing coordination with various authorities helps the ROP identify highly congested areas that require intensive monitoring to establish a safe environment around schools.
“The success of the plan depends on the awareness of parents, students, and bus drivers,” Staff Col Al Harrasi stated. “Traffic violations and reckless behaviour near schools pose a direct threat to student and road user safety.”
He warned that offenses such as speeding, using a mobile phone while driving, unsafe overtaking, and failing to give priority to pedestrians can lead to serious injuries and accidents.
Staff Col Al Harrasi also urged drivers to avoid random parking, especially in front of school gates and pedestrian crossings, as this hinders the movement of students and buses.
The ROP emphasised that safety aboard school buses is equally vital. 'Drivers are advised to adhere to permitted passenger capacities, ensure students are clear of the vehicle before moving, and confirm the bus is empty at the end of each trip. This is in addition to complying with speed limits and ensuring students’ safety during boarding and disembarking.'
The ROP stressed that community cooperation is essential to maintaining a safe school environment and called on all road users to follow traffic rules to protect students.