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Advocates Philippines
DOTr Explores Motorcycle Lane On EDSA To Tackle Traffic Woes
FILE
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and allied agencies are delving into the feasibility of introducing a designated motorcycle lane on EDSA, in a bid to alleviate the perennial traffic gridlock in the area.
DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista revealed that approximately 170,000 motorcycles navigate EDSA daily, prompting discussions on a dedicated lane for these vehicles along the bustling thoroughfare.
"Currently, EDSA comprises only four lanes. One lane is allocated for buses, while the right side hosts the bicycle lane. We are considering transforming the adjacent lane into a motorcycle lane," Sec. Bautista elaborated.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, he emphasized, "As it stands, motorcycles occupy every available lane on EDSA. We're collaborating with the MMDA to devise strategies for ameliorating the traffic situation, particularly concerning motorcycles."
In addition to congestion mitigation, the implementation of a motorcycle lane aims to tackle the economic ramifications of traffic, asserted the transport chief.
Referring to a 2012 study by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Sec. Bautista underscored the staggering economic toll of traffic congestion in Metro Manila. From a daily cost of P2.4 billion in 2012, the figure soared to P3.5 billion in 2017 and has surged to P4.9 billion as of 2022. JICA's projections indicate a potential spike to P9 billion per day by 2030.
"Economic costs associated with traffic congestion include additional fuel expenses, heightened logistical costs, missed opportunities for economic growth, and reduced quality time with family," Sec. Bautista said.
DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista revealed that approximately 170,000 motorcycles navigate EDSA daily, prompting discussions on a dedicated lane for these vehicles along the bustling thoroughfare.
"Currently, EDSA comprises only four lanes. One lane is allocated for buses, while the right side hosts the bicycle lane. We are considering transforming the adjacent lane into a motorcycle lane," Sec. Bautista elaborated.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, he emphasized, "As it stands, motorcycles occupy every available lane on EDSA. We're collaborating with the MMDA to devise strategies for ameliorating the traffic situation, particularly concerning motorcycles."
In addition to congestion mitigation, the implementation of a motorcycle lane aims to tackle the economic ramifications of traffic, asserted the transport chief.
Referring to a 2012 study by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Sec. Bautista underscored the staggering economic toll of traffic congestion in Metro Manila. From a daily cost of P2.4 billion in 2012, the figure soared to P3.5 billion in 2017 and has surged to P4.9 billion as of 2022. JICA's projections indicate a potential spike to P9 billion per day by 2030.
"Economic costs associated with traffic congestion include additional fuel expenses, heightened logistical costs, missed opportunities for economic growth, and reduced quality time with family," Sec. Bautista said.
Apr 22, 2024
