14 February,2026 08:51 AM IST | Mumbai | Aditi Alurkar
Traffic constable Rakesh Kaginkar drops off students to their exam centre on Tuesday. pic/by special arrangement
With Std XII board exams underway and Std X exams approaching, Thane Traffic Police have activated a special helpline to help students stuck in traffic reach centres on time. Since February 10, 54 traffic riders across 18 zones have been deployed to respond to distress calls during peak morning congestion.
"Students are expected to reach their centres at least 30 minutes early, but exam timings clash with office rush hour," said Police Inspector Yuvraj Sarnobat. This initiative was also carried out last year, and saw great response from parents and students.
What is your advice to students and parents?
Check travel time on Google Maps and add a 30-minute buffer. If you need help, contact us and remain calm. The helpline is for genuine exam emergencies only.
How did the helpline perform earlier?
We ran a similar initiative last year, but awareness was low, and we helped 34 students in total. This year, we have already assisted 26 students in just two days.
Why does traffic remain such a challenge?
Road capacity and vehicle numbers are almost equal, so even a single breakdown can create a bottleneck. Traffic conditions change minute by minute.
Time exams begin: 11 am
Reporting time: 10.30 am
Peak traffic window: 9 am to 10.30 am
Officials said even a minor vehicle breakdown can trigger delays during this crucial period
1. A student or their parents call the helpline
2. The control room alerts nearest riders
3. Two riders reach the spot
4. Vehicle with student is prioritised through traffic
Riders remain connected via wireless sets until the vehicle clears the congestion
8286300300
8286400400
WhatsApp: 7039003866
Initiative started: Feb 10
Students helped so far: 26
Calls received: About 35
>> Kapurbawdi Junction
>> Balkum Naka
>> Ghodbunder Road
While road assistance is improving, crowded trains continue to pose risks. Recently, an 18-year-old student from Dombivli died after falling from a packed train while heading to his first exam.
