Oct 05 – In the face of modern life challenges, as Bengaluru city grapples with overpopulation, the Karnataka High Court proposed that the Department of School Education and Literacy adjust school timings by 30 minutes to an hour to alleviate traffic congestion.
The Karnataka Education Department has also organized a meeting with the Association of Private Schools, the Association of School Vehicles, and parents on October 5th to gather their input on potential changes to school hours.
Currently, most schools in Bengaluru commence classes around 8:30 a.m. However, the administration is exploring the idea of altering school timings due to widespread traffic issues. Concerns about students’ health have been raised by parents and other stakeholders.
Rather than altering school timings, media reports suggest that parents, schools, and other stakeholders have proposed increasing police presence at major traffic zones near schools to help ease congestion.
Last month, the Karnataka High Court addressed this matter during a PIL hearing. In their ruling, Chief Justice Prasanna Varale and Justice Krishna Dixit suggested that the state government convene a meeting with representatives from private and public institutions, school bus operators, and parent associations to discuss potential adjustments to school hours in order to alleviate traffic congestion in the city.
Mohan Rakesh, a parent residing in Rajaji Nagar, expressed concerns, stating, “Changing school timings would add significant stress to everyone, including parents, students, and teachers, as parents already struggle to prepare their children for school. It could adversely affect mental well-being.”
Revathi Muthuswamy, another parent, offered an alternative perspective, saying, “Instead of advancing school timings, the Education Department should recommend that the government deploy efficient staff, such as police personnel, to ensure the smooth flow of traffic.”
