Commuters in Qatar are being urged to start early on the roads today, as nearly 300,000 students return to school this morning.

To keep things running smoothly, traffic police are stepping up patrols around town, especially near new intersections.

Speaking to the Peninsula, a senior traffic department official said:

“We are expecting more rush on the first day (today), because many people are not familiar with the new intersections and diversions.

Patrolling will focus on areas such as the newly opened Civil Defense intersection and Al Attiyah intersection, to prevent traffic congestion and accidents.”

Abu Hamour, Al Rayyan and Bani Hajir are some of the areas that police will focus on, added Maj. Jabor Mohammed Rashid Odaiba, assistant director of Media and Traffic Awareness.

Staying safe

Meanwhile, another traffic official told Gulf Times that motorists should “start early, look for alternate routes wherever traffic diversions have been put in place, and plan ahead to face the unexpected.”

The unnamed official also stressed the importance of maintaining one’s cool while on the road.

“Never lose your patience or temper while you are at the wheels, as it will not solve any problem but will result in further complications,” he said.

How is your commute going this morning? Thoughts?