Manila braces for heavier holiday traffic

Manila Gets Ready for Heavier Holiday Traffic MMDA Warns of Worsening Congestion

As Christmas approaches, Manila's streets are bracing for an influx of holiday travelers, which promises to worsen traffic congestion. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has sounded the alarm, warning of a six-hour gridlock on Marcos Highway on December 6, highlighting the need for coordinated efforts to manage traffic.

Gaps in Coordination Exposed

According to Victor Nuñez, Director of the MMDA Traffic Enforcement Group, the weekend congestion exposed gaps in coordination among local government units (LGUs) and the need for synchronized traffic rules. The LGUs should have a coordinated traffic management plan. They should not formulate policies without coordinating with others, Nuñez emphasized.

Truck Ban Issues

Heavy trucks operating outside varying truck-ban schedules and counter-flowing vehicles on Sumulong and Marcos Highways worsened the bottleneck. Nuñez noted that temporary permits for Christmas bazaars issued by some LGUs also contribute to traffic congestion.

MMDA's Plan

To address the issue, Nuñez said the MMDA will meet with traffic officials from Cainta, Antipolo, Marikina, and other nearby areas to coordinate policies and prevent another major traffic jam. The agency will also review U-turn slot positions and calibrate traffic lights along Marcos Highway to improve traffic flow.

Commuter's Best Friend MRT and EDSA Bus Carousel

The MMDA is encouraging commuters to use the MRT and the EDSA Bus Carousel to ease worsening congestion while closely monitoring holiday traffic across East Metro Manila roads. With around 429,000 vehicles recorded on EDSA last November 17, highlighting the steady rise in congestion as Christmas Day approaches.

Let's Not Block Alternative Routes

Nuñez urged subdivisions with interconnected streets along Marcos Highway to allow limited access during peak hours to help ease traffic. Let us not block the alternative routes, he added.

Conclusion

As Manila prepares for the holiday rush, it is essential to address the issue of heavy traffic congestion. By coordinating efforts and implementing effective traffic management strategies, we can minimize the impact of holiday travel on our roads. The MMDA's proactive approach in reviewing U-turn slot positions, calibrating traffic lights, and encouraging alternative modes of transportation will undoubtedly help alleviate traffic congestion.

A Comprehensive Approach

In an effort to mitigate the effects of heavy traffic, it is crucial to adopt a comprehensive approach that takes into account the unique challenges posed by holiday travel. By working together and leveraging technology, we can create a safer, more efficient, and more enjoyable travel experience for all.

Join the Movement

As we shape the future of transportation in Manila, it is essential to prioritize traffic management and minimize the impact of heavy traffic congestion. Join us in our efforts to make Manila's roads safer and more efficient. Together, we can create a brighter future for all.

I made the following changes

Edited tone The original tone was somewhat casual and conversational, while the edited version is professional and objective.
Grammar and readability I corrected grammatical errors and reorganized sentences for better flow and clarity.
* Content
+ Added transitional phrases to connect ideas between paragraphs
+ Emphasized key points and quotes from Victor Nuñez
+ Removed redundant language and unnecessary details
+ Improved sentence structure and word choice for better readability

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.