MMDA, DOTr to answer passenger influx with MRT, 650 enforcers

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) have prepared the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and a 650-strong traffic enforcement team to answer the passenger influx due to the emergency road repair in the Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA) Carousel bus lane.

MMDA Acting Chairman Romando Artes said that Transportation Undersecretary for Railways Cesar Chavez assured that the MRT is ready to accommodate commuters that are affected by said emergency roadwork undertaken by the Department of Public Works and Highways DPWH.

“Motorists and commuters who will be affected by the one-time, big-time emergency repair are expected to take the trains to avoid the expected traffic build-up at EDSA. Usec. Chavez assured that the MRT is ready for the anticipated influx,” Artes noted.

“MRT 3 now has 24 trainsets available and operational after completing its general overhaul of 72 Light Rail Vehicles in November 2022,” he added.

Per Chavez, MRT’s daily average now is 375,000 to 400,000 ridership.

MRT 3 is also ready to deploy at least two additional trainsets during peak hours if and when necessary.

“With 24 train sets available, MRT can deploy two or three more train sets if needed to accommodate 450,000 to 500,000 passengers daily with four minutes headway,” Chavez told Artes.

In addition, the MMDA will also implement a traffic management plan and a traffic enforcement team consisting of 650 personnel who will oversee the traffic flow along EDSA and guide motorists and commuters that will be affected.

The emergency repair due to typhoon Egay is expected to be completed tomorrow (August 9).

The MMDA is advising motorists to take alternative routes to avoid inconvenience.

Photos from MMDA and Ruben Manahan IV

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