The police in Ernakulam district, Kochi, have strengthened their traffic management and safety arrangements ahead of the reopening of schools on June 1.

Anticipating a significant surge in road traffic due to the return of students after the summer vacation, authorities have identified 59 major congestion points across the city, including key junctions such as Vyttila, Edappally, Palarivattom, Vaduthala, Pachalam, and both ends of the Goshree bridges.To ensure smooth traffic flow and student safety, around 700 police personnel will be deployed during peak hours from 7 a.m.to 10 a.m.and again from 3 p.m.to 6 p.m.

The deployment will include traffic police, local station staff, and personnel from the armed reserve camp, along with additional patrol teams across the city.As part of the measures, the movement of tipper lorries will be restricted during peak school hours to reduce congestion.Special squads will also be assigned to detect cases of drunken driving and driving under the influence of narcotic substances.Volunteers will be stationed at school premises to assist with pedestrian safety and ensure children can safely enter and exit school zones.The traffic plan was finalised after station-level surveys and based on past traffic experience, according to senior police officials.In parallel, Ernakulam Rural Police have also implemented separate safety and traffic control measures focusing on school transport.

Drivers and helpers of school buses have undergone awareness and training sessions, while strict inspections are being conducted to verify permits, fitness certificates, and other mandatory documentation.Authorities have warned that strict action will be taken against any violations, particularly cases involving intoxicated driving.The Motor Vehicles Department has also completed annual fitness checks for school buses as part of preparations for the new academic year.