MMDA urges public to use mass transport as traffic jams expected during Christmas season
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) urged commuters to use mass transportation system to decongest roads in Metro Manila of motor vehicles, which is one of the major reasons behind monstrous traffic jams during the Christmas season.
MMDA chairman Don Artes said the volume of motor vehicles on major thoroughfares, particularly EDSA, has already exceeded its capacity and the increase in the volume during Holiday season is causing traffic congestion.
In a press briefing, Artes revealed that around 450,000 motor vehicles were recorded along EDSA alone, which he said, is more than the 250,000 capacity.
To manage the high vehicular volume, Artes said the MMDA has implemented adjustments which include coordinating with the Department of Transportation
(DOTr) to extend operating hours of the MRT and LRT and other public transport systems.
“This is aimed at encouraging the public not to use their private vehicles,’ said Artes.
He said this will be complemented with the aggressive clearing operations of Mabuhay Lanes, which are designated alternate routes to help motorists
avoid congested main roads like EDSA.
Other measures include asking mall operators to refrain from holding mall-wide sale events during peak holiday hours.