MMDA Acting Chairperson Atty. Don Artes briefs the media and other stakeholders about the agency’s initial plan to implement road sharing on EDSA. (Photo Courtesy: MMDA)
QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is looking into the possibility of implementing road sharing for bicycles and motorcycles along the Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA).
MMDA Acting Chairperson Don Artes on Tuesday, August 22, reported that a preliminary study is being conducted to explore the feasibility of the said initiative which aims to address the underutilization of EDSA bicycle lanes.
As of July 17, the agency recorded a total of 165,000 motorcycles traversing EDSA on a daily basis as per the MMDA Traffic Engineering Center.
“We have observed that many motorcycle riders use the bicycle lanes on EDSA since the suspension of the no contact apprehension policy. Additionally, we have been receiving complaints from the bicycle groups stating that they could not use the dedicated lane for them,” Artes noted, highlighting the existing policy on the exclusivity of the bicycle lane.
In this regard, MMDA will put forward its final road sharing proposal for the recommendation and approval of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) upon reaching the consensus of stakeholders which primarily include the group of cyclists and motorcycle riders.
“For now, we will only remind the motorcycle riders not to use the EDSA bicycle lane,” Artes stressed, as he reiterates the P1,000 fine that will be imposed among erring motorcycle riders for disregarding the implemented traffic signs.
Meanwhile, the agency also bared its plans to conduct a feasibility study on the construction of elevated walkway and bikeway starting from Guadalupe to Cubao in a bid to ease the traffic congestion along the major thoroughfare.
To date, the MMDA is intensifying its preparation for the upcoming opening ceremonies of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 which will take place on Aug. 25 at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.
As part of its traffic management schemes, Artes reminded the public that the expanded number coding scheme will not be suspended on the said date.
In addition, the MMDA organized a Multi-agency Command Center (MACC) for a more expedited and coordinated traffic control.
The road works in Metro Manila has also been temporarily suspended until September 10 to ensure that all key routes remain passable and serviceable for delegates as well as pedestrians throughout the duration of the FIBA World Cup.
The implementation of mall-wide sales in malls along EDSA and other areas affected by the FIBA World Cup 2023 is likewise prohibited towards a safe conduct of the momentous sporting event. (MMDA/PIA-NCR)
