MRT3 implements segregation scheme for lines of passengers w/ small bags

The Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) has implemented a segregation scheme for passengers entering the train stations in a bid to cut long queues during rush hours.

Under the scheme, the lane of passengers with big bags will be separated from those carrying small bags, according to an Unang Balita report by Darlene Cay on Tuesday.

Passengers with big bags will still have to pass through the X-ray machines, while those with small bags will be manually inspected by security guards through a metal detector.

Prior to this, all passengers, whether carrying small or big bags, will have to go through X-ray machines, resulting in long lines at the stations.

"Na-observe namin na 'yung pila ay nag-pile up lalo during peak hours at halos nagsisiksikan sa x-ray machine. Doon sila nagbabara. Ngayon, naisip namin bakit hindi paghiwalayin ang mga walang dalang bagahe at may mga dalang maliit na bagahe ihiwalay sa may malaking bagahe," DOTR MRT-3 General Manager Engr. Federico Canar said.

(We observed that the queues pile up especially during the peak hours and the passengers almost jam at x-ray machines. We thought of segregating passengers with and without small bags, from those carrying big bags.)

The dry run was conducted last week.

"We conducted a survey during the succeeding days and the passengers said the scheme was acceptable. The flow of queues sped up during the peak hours. We heard positive comments," Canar said.

The policy is now implemented at all MRT3 stations. — Jamil Santos/RSJ, GMA Integrated News