Don't Remove EDSA Bus Lane Business Group Warns of Traffic Chaos

Title Don't Remove EDSA Bus Lane Business Group Warns of Traffic Chaos

The Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) has issued a strong warning against removing the exclusive EDSA busway, citing concerns that it would have little impact on easing Metro Manila's notorious traffic congestion. In a statement released on February 7, MAP emphasized that dismantling the EDSA Carousel Lane and allowing private vehicles into it would be ill-advised and contrary to the National Transport Policy of 2017.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) had previously announced that removing the EDSA Carousel Lane was one of the recommendations presented to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at Malacañang. However, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista has reassured the public that the dedicated EDSA bus lane will not be removed.

MAP is urging the government to focus on maximizing the use of existing alternative routes, such as the Mabuhay Lanes, which would be particularly beneficial for motorcycles traveling point-to-point. The organization stressed that clearing these lanes of all traffic obstruction and illegal parking would be a more effective solution than contemplating the dismantling of the EDSA Carousel Lane.

In addition to this concern, MAP highlighted other traffic management issues, including congestion fee charges, which have yet to be fully discussed with motorists, much less tested. According to Bautista, The EDSA Busway remains the most efficient public transit system in Metro Manila. MAP echoed this view, noting that its efficiency has been well-proven over the past three years of its existence despite being incomplete.

In contrast, adding extra coaches to the MRT-3 would overload the system's superstructure and trackway. The privatization of the EDSA Carousel Lane is currently in its preparatory stages, with public bidding expected in the second quarter of 2025.

MAP has called on the government to present a clear and coordinated stance on this vital public transportation project. As the country continues to grapple with traffic congestion, it's essential that policymakers prioritize effective solutions that benefit all road users – not just private vehicle owners.

Keywords EDSA bus lane, MAP, MMDA, traffic management, National Transport Policy, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista

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Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

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