MMDA to suspend all road works to address holiday traffic

Heavy traffic is seen along EDSA in Pasay City in this file photo. (RICHARD REYES / Philippine Daily Inquirer)

MANILA – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced Wednesday that all infrastructure works that require road right-of-way excavation will soon be suspended to address the expected influx of holiday travelers.

In a press conference at the MMDA headquarters in Pasig City, MMDA Chair Don Artes said these road right-of-way excavation works would be suspended from Nov. 18 to Dec. 25.

“We have to implement remedial measures to reduce traffic congestion as vehicle volume in Metro Manila increases during the holidays,” Artes said.

These infrastructure works include road reblocking works, pipe-laying, road upgrading, and other excavation works that may hinder or disrupt the smooth flow of traffic.

“Exempted from the moratorium are flagship projects of the government, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) bridge repair, and construction, flood interceptor catchment projects, and emergency leak repair, among others,” he said.

The temporary suspension of road works is part of the MMDA’s traffic management measures for the holidays discussed during a meeting with the DPWH, shopping mall operators, water, electricity, and telecommunications companies.

Among those who attended the meeting were representatives of SM Malls, Robinsons, Ayala Malls, Meralco, PLDT, Globe, DITO, Manila Water, and Maynilad.

He said all stakeholders gave their unanimous support for the traffic alleviation measures.

Other traffic measures are the adjustment of mall hours, as well as the extension of public transport operating hours.

Data from the MMDA Traffic Engineering Center showed that as of Sept. 24, an average of 421,000 vehicles traversed the Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) daily. (PNA)