As schools in Doha are set to reopen within the next few days, the Traffic Department has advised motorists to start early in the morning so that they can reach their destinations on time. Traffic congestion is expected in parts of Doha during the morning rush hour as road works are going on around the city. Work is progressing on the Corniche to change roundabouts to signals. There is a partial closure in the Mesaimeer area as a flyover construction on the road to the Industrial Area is in full swing. A section of Al Markhiya Street leading to the Corniche is also closed. Speaking to Gulf Times, Ademola Gideon Ilori, safety adviser at the Traffic Department, General Administration for Public Safety and the National Committee for Traffic Safety, said motorists must leave enough time to reach their work place and other destinations. “Motorists must start early so that they can reach their place on time,” Ilori said. “In view of the ongoing road works, there can be traffic congestion in some parts of the city. Try to avoid the busy areas during the peak hours, especially where the construction works are going on. This is one step that will help everyone to reach their destinations safely and on time.” He reminded that the use of mobile phones must be strictly stopped while driving. “This applies to both motorists and pedestrians. It is more dangerous if pedestrians cross the roads while using mobile phones as they will not be able to concentrate on the road.” He urged pedestrians to cross roads only at the designated areas. The official agreed that it could be frustrating at times for motorists to drive through a long stretch of traffic. “But it is important that people keep their nerves and drive following all rules. Avoid taking your car out of the lane to get out of the traffic early. Accidents take place when you try to squeeze through the traffic.” He said the Traffic Department had issued a set of safety guidelines for motorists. Officials of some schools said that they had already given “necessary instructions” for their transportation department and bus drivers. They also pointed out that if any serious traffic issues came up, they would think of alternative arrangements like changes in timing. In addition to starting early, they have also appealed to parents to share the transport if possible. An official of an Indian school said: “If a parent can accommodate in his car the students of the neighbouring apartment studying in the same school, it can reduce the number of vehicles on the road, especially during peak hours. If the same is done by other parents it will, in turn, help reduce the traffic.” While the Corniche roadwork is expected to be completed by November this year, the flyover construction at Mesiameer will be over by the end of next year. http://www.gulf-times.com/qatar/178/details/365020/start-early-to-avoid-traffic--jam%2c-motorists-told

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