Gov't mulls removal of EDSA bus lane

The government is considering the removal of EDSA bus lane, according to Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Romando Artes on Wednesday.

At a Palace press briefing, Artes said the matter was discussed during the meeting with President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. where they talked about the Comprehensive Traffic Management Plan (CTMP) for Metro Manila and its nearby provinces.

Meanwhile, the MMDA chief said removing the EDSA bus lane is still a suggestion, noting that it will not happen unless the MRT's carrying capacity is improved.

''Well, napag-usapan din po kahapon iyan kasi nagsabi po ang DOTr na currently, they are expanding iyong carrying capacity ng MRT. I think, if I recall it right, additional 30% capacity kasi sa ngayon iyong bagon natin, tatlo lang bawat trip,'' Artes said.

(That was also discussed yesterday because the DOTr said that currently, they are expanding the carrying capacity of the MRT. I think, if I recall it right, there would be an additional 30% capacity because right now we only have three train coaches.)

''Magdadagdag po ng isang bagon, so that’s another 30% additional capacity. Inaayos lang iyong infrastructure to accommodate iyong mas mahabang bagon,'' he added. 

(One wagon will be added, so that's another 30% additional capacity. The infrastructure is just being adjusted to accommodate the longer wagon.)

Artes also said earlier that the rehabilitation of EDSA is expected to begin by March of this year.

''Napag-usapan po 'yan kahapon, sinabi po ni DPWH Secretary (Manuel) Bonoan na ginagawa na po 'yung timetable at 'yung preliminary traffic management plan para po sa rehab ng EDSA,'' Artes said.

(We discussed that yesterday, Secretary Bonoan said they are doing the timetable and the preliminary traffic management plan for the rehabilitation of EDSA.)

--VAL, GMA Integrated News