MMDA sets 4 conditions for express buses on EDSA

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has laid down four conditions to ensure better traffic management in the routes of the 50 express passenger buses that will be deployed in the metropolis.

MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino believed that the express buses would translate to faster and better commuter service while contributing to overall traffic reduction in the metropolis.

As such, Tolentino has asked Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya to consider four condi- tions in deploying the express buses.

The express bus service must not translate into additional units of buses but rather be substituted on 1:1 ratio for the existing buses.

The express buses will be allowed to use the tunnels along EDSA provided that they have 60 percent capacity per unit. Also, they will not be exempted from the existing traffic regulations.

Tolentino said the express buses must also utilize the existing bus stops of the MMDA and they will not be allowed to load and unload passengers in between these stops.

Lastly, for easy identification, these express buses will be colored with a uniformed designated color.

Under the plan, a fleet of buses will travel non-stop from one point to another.

Prior to the deployment of the express buses, concerned agencies will have a trial run from the MMDA dispatch area in Fairview to the Ayala Central Business District.

The mechanics for the implementation of the project are now being ironed out by DOTC, MMDA, and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

The project aims to entice motorists to take the passenger express bus instead of using private vehicles. Thus, the number of vehicles plying major thoroughfares would decrease.