EDSA Busway now monitored by MMDA’s bus management system

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced that the EDSA Busway is now being monitored under the Bus Management and Dispatch System (BMDS). The latter in turn, is operated by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

EDSA Busway is now monitored by MMDA's BMDS

This was decided upon in a bid to “enhance the public commuting experience.” In addition, this partnership between the MMDA and DOTr is touted as more systematic than what was previously in place on the EDSA busway. 

It was further argued by the DOTr that this process can ensure that the flow of buses will be better managed. This then, may result in smoother journeys and lesser congestion on the bus lane, as well as on bus stops and terminals.

This works by keeping an eye on the number of buses plying the EDSA busway at any given time. The transport agency says that this is achieved via a contactless monitoring measure that leverages  QR codes that were issued to a bus driver and a bus conductor.

So before they can ply the EDSA Buslane, drivers will be required to have their QR codes scanned. This is performed by MMDA-assigned dispatching officers who are stationed at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) and at the Monumento bus station. 

By scanning the bus driver’s QR codes, the dispatching offers can access important information including unsettled violations. The DOTr says that this system will assure a “high level of accountability.” 

Let us hope that this measure indeed works.

For those unaware, MMDA’s BMDS was inaugurated way back in 2013. This was established as a way to make sure these forms of public transport are operated by qualified individuals in a law-abiding manner. It likewise features an extensive database for every single bus unit plying Metro Manila and the drivers that operate them. 

The effectiveness of this system imposed on the EDSA Busway remains to be seen. It might inconvenience drivers and passengers for a bit, but a report from GMA has since confirmed that the monitoring process for drivers can be done relatively quickly at least. 

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