CBSE Flags Traffic Disruptions Ahead of Feb 17 Board Exams, Urges Early Arrival at Centres

Days before the commencement of the 2026 board examinations, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) issued an advisory asking students to report to examination centres well in advance, citing the possibility of traffic disruptions linked to national-level events scheduled around the same period.

The board examinations for Classes 10 and 12 are set to begin on February 17, 2026. In its communication to schools, parents and students, CBSE emphasised that candidates must plan their commute carefully and factor in potential road restrictions, diversions and heightened security arrangements that could delay travel in several cities.

Students have been advised to adhere strictly to reporting times mentioned on their admit cards and to carry all mandatory documents, including admit cards and school identity cards. Schools, in turn, have been asked to sensitise parents and coordinate locally to prevent last-minute confusion that could add to exam-day anxiety.

The advisory reflects CBSE’s attempt to pre-empt logistical disruptions that, in previous years, have led to students arriving late despite reaching examination centres on time under normal traffic conditions.

For lakhs of candidates appearing this year, the message is clear: preparation must extend beyond textbooks to travel planning, because in high-stakes examinations, timing can be as critical as performance.