Zipper lane traffic scheme on EDSA put on hold —MMDA chief

Monday's expected implementation of the "zipper lane" traffic scheme on a section of EDSA will be canceled, the Metro Manila Development Authority announced Friday.

Motorists along EDSA had mix reactions during the experimental implementation of the zipper lane scheme last Friday, that covered a stretch on EDSA from Main Avenue to Gaudix in Ortigas.

"We need to go back to the drawing board to make necessary adjustments," MMDA General Manager Tim Orbos said in a statement.

"But we cannot stop looking for solutions to address [the traffic gridlock in] this area," he said, adding  that while the zipper lane dry run significantly reduced travel time on the southbound direction, it affected northbound traffic flow as result.

"We need to come out with solutions that would benefit the majority for the long term. By its very nature, the zipper lane scheme just works as a release valve that can readily be utilized but not on a regular basis," he added.

The zipper lane was supposed to ease heavy traffic flow in the Cubao-Ortigas corridor, which is  considered as one of the most congested section on Edsa, the MMDA said.

Out of the 45 provincial bus terminals along Edsa, 26 are located in Cubao, while Ortigas has nine of the largest malls in the Metropolis and two schools in proximity to Edsa bus terminals. Add to this the police and military camps within the area, the MMDA added.

Also, it said that the traffic problem on Edsa is sectional, thus,  solutions vary on a by-segment basis.

Among the other measures being studied for the area are the opening up of more roads to include building a new access road in the Santolan area; stricter anti-illegal parking enforcement; and queuing of vehicles at the schools, restaurants, and other establishments will also be intensified. —LBG, GMA News