TRB asks NLEX to explain flooding, stranding of motorists

The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) has issued a show cause order against NLEX Corp. to explain why it should not be slapped with administrative sanctions following the massive flooding on several segments of the North Luzon Expressway, which had stranded motorists and commuters.

In a news release on Saturday, the DOTr said the TRB, in particular, is seeking NLEX Corp.‘s explanation on the hours-long stranding of motorists on July 21 due to flooding at the Balintawak and Valenzuela portions of the toll road, despite its directive to toll operators to prepare for the rainy season as early as May.

The Transportation Department said the TRB may order NLEX Corp. to grant a toll holiday on the affected segments of the expressway.

Sought for comment, NLEX Corp. said the toll operator has already sent its response to the TRB on Friday, July 25, and “we are in close coordination with our regulators.”

In a news release, NLEX Corp. said it is implementing proactive risk-mitigation efforts, including the regular cleaning of drainage systems and culverts, roadside clearing, constant monitoring of river water levels, bridge inspections and mitigation works, ensuring the availability and readiness of water trucks and other dewatering equipment, and organizing an inter-agency flood mitigation forum to strengthen the preparedness of host and neighboring communities in maintaining clear waterways.

The company said that despite its efforts, the unprecedented rainfall brought by the intensified Southwest Monsoon (Habagat), coupled with the overflow of La Mesa Dam, caused flooding in the NLEX Balintawak Cloverleaf, Valenzuela, and Meycauayan areas.

It nonetheless said it is ramping up its multi-layered flood control defense to enhance protection against flooding along its expressway network.

NLEX Corp. is a subsidiary of the Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) —the toll road arm of the Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC). —KG, GMA Integrated News