'Human traffic' heavy at Tullahan bridge

On the first working day since its closure last weekend, traffic was heavy but relatively manageable both on and near the Tullahan Bridge in Valenzuela City Monday morning. Radio dzBB reported Monday that "traffic" on the bridge was heavy even if it was open only to pedestrians, motorcycles and bicycles. Pedestrians and bicycle riders "endured" the 50- to 100-meter walk to get to the other end of the bridge, where passenger jeep operators set up mini-terminals. Local traffic enforcers from Valenzuela City government and "volunteer" barkers were also on hand to help ensure traffic remained manageable. The Department of Public Works and Highways agreed last week to "postpone" the closure of the 73-year-old Tullahan Bridge to give officials enough time to draft a better rerouting plan. When the Tullahan Bridge was first closed earlier this month, traffic was snarled as passengers fought for space on passenger jeeps. DPWH officials closed the bridge last weekend to make way for its rehabilitation, amid efforts by Valenzuela City officials led by Mayor Sherwin Gatchalian for a postponement. Tullahan Bridge connects the cities of Manila, Malabon, and Valenzuela to Bulacan. Officials estimate that at least 60,000 vehicles pass through the bridge daily. - GMANews.TV