'Wow, sosyal': DOTr eyes self-driving cable cars in Baguio City
Cable cars in Baguio City? Why not!
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has given a go-signal for the conduct of a feasibility study on installing self-driving cable cars in Baguio City.
The transport system, which could be the first in the Philippines, is called Zippar and is planned to be installed inside Camp John Hay, according to DOTr Secretary Jaime J. Bautista.
"The Zippar or self-driven cable cars to be tested in Baguio City, could be a game-changer for urban public transport while presenting an ideal green transport model. But we choose to temper our excitement with the need to first undertake the requisite feasibility studies,” said Bautista.
The conduct of feasibility study on self-driving cable cars was formalized with the signing of agreement between the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and the Zip Infrastructure Co. Ltd.
Under the agreement, the Zip Infrastructure will prepare a feasibility study for operations and maintenance of its self-driven cable car system.
Aside from its versatile design that allows riding in curves and branches, it will remain automated and operated from a control center.
It will also further provide an alternative transport system that will help ease up traffic congestion, give better accessibility and mobility, and help promote efficient and sustainable transport.
"If we can maintain the momentum of public transport innovations, we can be certain of achieving the promised benefits of these projects," Bautista said.
“We hope to determine the possibility of adopting Zippar to a highly congested metropolis like Metro Manila," he added.