MMDA Fines MRT-7 Contractor PHP25K for Causing Traffic along Elliptical Road, North Avenue

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has imposed a PHP25,000 fine on EEI Corporation, the contractor for the Metro Rail Transit Line-7 (MRT-7) project, for causing a traffic gridlock along the Elliptical Road and North Avenue in Quezon City yesterday, Tuesday, January 8.

According to the MMDA, the company failed to inform the agency that its heavy equipment for excavation activities will occupy two lanes in the aforementioned thoroughfares, resulting in heavy traffic buildup in the area.

"We were surprised about the closure of two lanes without properly informing us of the exact date of the closure. The area became a chokepoint as lanes available for the motorists narrowed," said MMDA General Manager Jojo Garcia, who conducted an inspection of the construction work.

As a remedy, Garcia directed the contractor to install plates on the two affected lanes to make them passable to motorists. He also ordered the firm to place yellow lane markings to prevent motorists from swerving or changing lanes, as well as traffic signage on merging lanes and other necessary adjustments.

The MMDA reminded private contractors to inform them of any change or movement in their construction activities so that the agency can implement traffic management plans ahead of time for the convenience of motorists.

"We understand that the project is under the 'Build, Build, Build' program of the government, which would later benefit motorists, but coordination is important to minimize inconvenience to motorists," Garcia added.

The MRT-7 is a 22.8-kilometer railway line that will have 14 stations and run from North Avenue in Quezon City to San Jose del Monte in Bulacan.