Now that the vehicular volume in EDSA has exceeded pre-pandemic levels, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is looking to find ways to improve traffic management. One of these is establishing an exclusive motorcycle lane along Commonwealth Avenue, which was tackled during its two-day motorcycle consultation workshop.
MMDA conducted its two-day motorcycle consultation workshop
Based on the government agency’s data, the daily average number of vehicles plying EDSA is now at 410,000, which is slightly higher than the 405,000 during pre-pandemic. Having dedicated lanes for motorcyclists can reduce traffic by managing traffic flow, similar to the benefits of bus lanes along EDSA.
The exclusive lane can also safeguard motorcyclists on the road, especially now that more motorists are on the go due to various reasons such as lower quarantine restrictions and face-to-face classes reopening. It can prevent incidents involving motorcycles and cars, which occur on highways such as Commonwealth Avenue.
“We, at MMDA, see ourselves as your partners on the road. We want to ensure your safety by providing good and quality infrastructure, as well as to maintain order and discipline on the roads by enforcing the proper rules and regulations,” said MMDA General Manager Baltazar Melgar.
MMDA is planning to construct motorcycle lanes along Commonwealth Avenue
Present in the motorcycle consultation workshop were representatives from the Land Transportation Office (LTO), Department of Transportation (DOTr), bus operators, and jeepney operators in Commonwealth, among others. 1-Rider Partylist Representatives Bonifacio Bosita and Rodge Gutierrez expressed their support for MMDA, saying:
“We are one with the MMDA in this kind of initiatives, which recognizes motorcycle riders as the most exposed and at-risk sector on the roads right now,” said legislators said.
The agency aims to keep motorcyclists safe
Aside from the workshop, the MMDA has also been improving the local motorcycle sector by rolling out the Basic Emergency Responders Course for Angkas and Joyride riders. With it, the riders can learn the proper methods to respond to emergencies such as traffic accidents on major thoroughfares in Metro Manila.
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