DOST willing to modify e-train
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is willing to modify the hybrid electric road train it lent to the City of Cebu to make it more viable for city streets.
DOST Secretary Fortunato dela Peña made the announcement during the 888 News Forum yesterday.
Dela Peña explained that the previous administration designed the road train to be lent to different local government units for mass transport to address traffic problem, especially in Metro Manila and in Metro Cebu. It was part of the Research and Development of the DOST.
The so-called hybrid e-train, which was designed locally by engineers from the DOST's Metal Industry Research and Development Center, can accommodate 240 passengers.
Commuters in Cebu City would have had the chance to ride the hybrid e-train for free during its supposed testing last February 15.
But DOST-7 Director Edilberto Paradela said the testing did not push through because of difficulty in controlling other motorists in designated routes due to narrow roads.
The proposed route starts from Fuente Osmeña oval going to Osmeña Boulevard, left turn to P. del Rosario Street then proceed to Imus New Road, right turn to General Maxilom Extension, right turn to S. Osmeña Avenue, right turn to Commerce Street, right turn to Benedicto Street, left turn to General Maxilom Extension, turn left to Imus New Road, straight to P del. Rosario Street, proceed to N. Bacalso Avenue, right turn to V. Rama Avenue, right turn to B. Rodriguez Street and then back to the Fuente Osmeña Oval.
Paradela said the next area for research is from SM City Cebu to Pier 1 in Cebu City. Dela Peña said using the e-train has been successful in Clark to transport passengers within the Clark Zone.
He said that it was Mayor Tomas Osmeña who brought up the idea of bringing the e-train in Cebu City.
The Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO) earlier suggested three other routes but these were found unfavorable for the road train. The CCTO will be announcing to the public the final route in the coming days for the hybrid electric road train testing.
The DOST donated to the city government of Cebu the hybrid electric road train, which is composed of five coaches. It is powered by a 300kva generator and dry cell batteries.
Researchers from DOST and technical personnel from CCTO will be monitoring the testing of the hybrid e-train and will evaluate if it is fit for Cebu City.
Rubio/FPL