PANAJI
As schools reopened for the new academic year on Monday, Cujira Educational Hub witnessed a successful start, though confusion among several parents prevailed over the revised traffic route within the campus.
The traffic police claimed they did take proactive measures in a bid to prevent any major traffic congestion. However, initial challenges arose as numerous parents attempted to hastily drop off their children directly outside their schools.
“The route has been changed. It came as a bit of a surprise because we were not allowed to take our vehicles beyond a certain point. Nevertheless, the vehicular chaos has lessened this time,” said one of the parents.
The Panaji traffic police have earmarked designated parking areas and walking zones for the convenience of students, parents, and the school staff. Separate entry and exit routes for groups of schools have been chalked out, plan which will remain in force until further orders.
Around seven traffic personnel deployed from the GMC underpass to the Cujira complex ensured parking arrangements and reduced the chances of traffic bottlenecks.
“We didn’t allow vehicles to crowd outside the schools. The four-wheelers and school buses were directed to park in the stadium where two of our staff were already deployed. We have also posted traffic personnel at other points to guide the parents and students (given the new traffic route). Simultaneously, dedicated walking areas are designated to ensure safety as well as help the students and the staff move around the campus without any hindrances,” Police Inspector (Traffic-Panaji) Chetan Saulekar told The Goan.
The traffic police are also taking the assistance of some parents, who have volunteered to ensure smooth traffic flow.
While minor traffic issues were still encountered, traffic around schools in other parts of Panaji also saw some chaotic situations. Buses and four-wheelers parked on the roadside outside Mary Immaculate Girls High School and the People’s High School did create morning chaos.
