Macau prepares for back-to-school traffic surge

Local authorities are increasing public transportation services and deploying additional traffic personnel as about 80% of the city’s kindergartens, primary and secondary schools prepare to reopen on Sept. 1.

The Transport Bureau (DSAT), Public Security Police Force (PSP) and Education and Youth Development Bureau (DSEDJ) announced that they have coordinated with the city’s two bus operators and the Light Rapid Transit authority to support students, parents and teachers during the first days of the new school year.

Bus services are expected to increase by 10% to 15% during peak hours, while some routes will use larger vehicles to accommodate higher demand.

Authorities will also strengthen staffing at busy stops, prepare tow trucks and maintenance teams, and adjust bus and LRT frequencies when necessary.

According to the joint announcement, on Thursday, some parking spaces near schools will be converted into temporary passenger pick-up and drop-off zones during the first week of classes. The PSP said that it will increase its presence at major intersections and roads near schools during morning arrival and afternoon dismissal periods.

There, PSP personnel will help direct traffic, improve vehicle flow and address illegally parked vehicles. During this time, schools will also deploy staff near entrances to assist students and provide families with information about class schedules and contingency plans in case of adverse weather.

Authorities said major roadworks carried out during the summer vacation were completed before the school year began, with some projects finished ahead of schedule. DSAT also inspected traffic facilities near about 80 schools and upgraded pedestrian crossings, crosswalks and traffic signs near more than 50 educational establishments.

The three departments said they will continue monitoring conditions and adjust arrangements according to traffic demand.

Parents and guardians have been advised to allow extra time for journeys, check traffic and weather updates, and use public transportation or other environmentally friendly options whenever possible. They have also been instructed to use public car parks or designated areas rather than stopping on surrounding roads.