Col. Mohammed Hassan Al-Qahtani, director of the Jeddah Traffic Department, said the new plan is part of a long-term strategy to cut down on road accidents and deaths during exam times.

“The new plan covers most of Jeddah’s main roads. Additional traffic police will be stationed on roads, especially around schools, for two weeks,” said Al-Qahtani.

“With the beginning of exams, many students end up leaving school early and spend time around malls and girls’ schools. They also joyride and carry out stunts in their cars. We are working with the Ministry of Education to avoid such problems,” he said.

“Main roads are not the only places where traffic police will be stationed. Officers will be posted in unidentified vehicles around most schools, universities and other educational institutions,” he added.

“To avoid traffic jams, we will organize the traffic flow to ensure students return home within the shortest time. The Traffic Department and the Ministry of Education have decided not to allow students to leave school till exams are over. This is being done to ensure students don’t fall into reckless behavior,” he added.

Schools have also been instructed to provide the Traffic Department with details of violations. “Undercover officers, students and teachers will provide us with information about students who have left school before the fixed time. Students who drive fast and do stunts will be arrested,” said Al-Qahtani.

Students who are caught violating rules face being fined SR1,000, having their vehicles impounded or taken to court. “If the student repeats the same violation, we will fine him SR1,500,” he said.

Al-Qahtani also advised students to leave home early, especially because of the large number of roadworks in the city, to avoid traffic jams. “In case of accidents, the police will be ready to finish the procedures quickly to help students reach their schools on time,” he added.

Traffic lights on main roads will be updated to facilitate movement and to ensure people do not have to wait. Al-Qahtani also stressed that trucks will not be allowed to operate in the city during peak times.

“I hope parents do not allow their children without driving licenses to drive. Parents should check up on their sons during exam times and ensure they return home on time,” said Al-Qahtani.