Ashghal enhances traffic safety for 518 schools in various areas across the country

Ashghal enhances traffic safety for 518 schools

The Public Works Authority ‘Ashghal’ has completed improving the road safety features surrounding 518 schools across the country, accounting for 91% of the total number of schools included in the School Zone Safety Programme, as part of Ashghal’s preparation for the new academic year 2021/2022. According to a study conducted by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, Ashghal has coordinated with the Ministry of Interior and the National Road Safety Committee to identify school areas in need of development. This year priority was given to approximately 568 schools spread across various areas in Qatar. Safety plans are being implemented for 41 schools and plans have been completed for two additional schools, with work expected to commence as soon as necessary approvals are obtained from concerned entities in the country. In addition, road safety plans are being designed for 7 schools. It is worth noting that 100% of schools included in the School Zone Safety Programme are in different stages of implementation. Eng. Hassen Al Hamadi, Head of Highways Operation & Maintenance Section, said that Ashghal continues to implement a comprehensive and continuous plan with international standards to ensure road safety features are in place on the roads surrounding schools, thus enhancing security and safety of students, parents and staff. Ashghal gives this programme high priority, as it is one of the key elements to achieve the National Road Safety Strategy (2018 – 2022). It aims to ease traffic congestions in these areas, separate vehicles from pedestrians and improve unpaved roads to achieve higher safety levels, ensuring safe entry and exit of students and parents from schools.