DOTr and LTFRB to help reduce long lines at EDSA busway stations

The Department of Transportation together with the Land Transportation and Regulatory Board has revealed that they have plans to make several changes and upgrades to the public transportation system in Metro Manila. These changes will help address the long queues along the EDSA Busway along with other forms of transportation.

The DOTr is currently looking into expanding the currently maximum seating capacity of public transportation as it currently sits at only 50 percent. That being said the government organization has already consulted with the IATF-EID but the decision on whether or not the capacity will increase will still depend on the respective government agencies. Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) operators have already chimed in and have stated that they are ready to increase the passenger capacity of their units.

As for the EDSA Busway, DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade has ordered a review of the present free ride program and its possible expansion to other platforms. As a temporary measure, the EDSA Busyway Consortium has been given the go signal to deploy the maximum number of bus units under their contract in order to serve more commuters utilizing the rapid bus transit system.

Aside from more buses being deployed more transport marshals will also be added for managing passenger traffic as well as more “rescue skip buses” that will help deal with the influx of passengers during rush hour. “Minibus loops” will also be put into place in order to insulate the EDSA Busway from vehicular accidents that might occur in the other lanes of EDSA. This will be done so that buses can maneuver freely and pick up more passengers quickly. The DOTr will also be working closely with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and with local government units to discuss other measures in which they can help prevent traffic congestion in EDSA that might affect the busway.