Special motorcycle units chase blue-lane violators

Over 200 motorcycle riders were issued citation tickets by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Monday for violating its new traffic policy covering the use of motorcycle lanes along EDSA.

Data from the agency showed that as of 1 p.m., 249 drivers were caught in five checkpoints along the 23.8-kilometer main highway in Metro Manila.

Violators were also apprehended by a special motorcycle unit created by MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino to implement its so-called blue-lane policy.

The designated motorcycle lane for EDSA, which has blue markings, is the fourth lane from the sidewalk for both northbound and southbound directions.

Assistant General Manager for Operations Emerson Carlos earlier said traffic aides were also told to monitor riders on motorcycle riders wearing slippers, did not use crash helmets and other safety gear, and took on more than the normal load of passengers.

During the dry run last week, 3,781 riders were caught and were made to attend a safe-riding seminar held by the MMDA.