Muscat: The traffic snarls around various localities in Oman’s capital close to the curfew time of 8pm has been a regular phenomenon which the Royal Oman Police have noted and requested general public to avoid.
Mohit Surathi, a resident of Ruwi says that the number of people rushing to get the last minute purchases before the curfew time seem to be consistently rising. “Although the offices close by 7pm leaving enough time to reach home before the curfew time of 8pm, there is snarl in the local pockets and arterial roads in most of the localities. The main highway remains comparatively free for movement.”
The super markets lower the shutters at half past seven, barring entry for anyone, while those inside are allowed to finish their billing. All the commercial establishments have necessarily to close well on time allowing enough time for their staff to reach home before 8.
Regular business
Moosa Kunjunni of Al Alam Super Markets in Al Khuwair says that the number of people rushing to the shop after seven has increased after the curfew began. “Most of the customers that rush at this time invariably come for onions, tomatoes, or bread. We open two counters at this time for billing, though our small outlet requires only one counter for regular business.”
“The traffic bottle necks in Al Khuwair in front of the Grand Mall intersection with a long line-up of motorists also could cause minor bash-ups as everyone is in a hurry to reach home. Punishment and penalties are also steep for violators.” says Salema Al Balushi, a staff with Bank Muscat, residing in Shati Al Qurm.
Authorities have advised the motorists to plan their outings to avoid rushing during the start of curfew hours.
