Saying that vehicular traffic volume is still “manageable,” Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr, said that the suspension of Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP), or the number coding scheme would remain, even if traffic on Edsa were slowly nearing pre-pandemic numbers.
Abalos also noted that public transportation is still not on normal operations with the 50 percent passenger capacity limit still in place. He added that there’s a need for more public utility vehicles (PUVs) on the road, as there were previous instances when there were not enough PUVs to ferry commuters which resulted to long queues in terminals or loading bays.
“If we implement the number coding scheme now, can our public transport accommodate passengers given the minimum health protocols such as social distancing needed to be implemented?” Abalos asked.
The MMDA chief underscored the possibility that once the number coding is restored, commuters might resort to carpooling which might compromise their health.
“Our cars are our personal bubble when we travel,” he added.
He also pointed out that those with one car only would be the ones severely affected if the number coding will be reimposed as they will be forced to use public transport and would therefore add up to the number of commuters lining up for PUVs.
“This will be hazardous to the health of the majority,” he stressed.
However, Abalos cited the improved travel speed on Edsa despite the increased vehicular volume along the major thoroughfare.
“Before pandemic, vehicle volume on Edsa was averaging at 405,000 but now, it is about 399,000. However, southbound travel speed is faster now at 27 kilometers per hour, compared to 11 kilometers per hour before the pandemic,” Abalos explained.
Abalos attributed the improved traffic flow on Edsa to the following:
– Implementation of the new busway located at the innermost lanes adjacent to the MRT Line 3
– Opening of U-turn slots along Edsa
– New road infrastructures
– Mabuhay lanes
Abalos urged the public to avoid Edsa and use Mabuhay Lanes and newly-opened roads as alternate routes to avoid inconvenience.
“I am asking for the public’s understanding and utmost cooperation as the government is still addressing the issue of transportation. Mabuhay Lanes serve as alternate routes for motorists who want more options going to their destination,” Abalos said.