MNTC undertakes P119-M NLEX drainage program

The Manila North Tollways Corp. ( MNTC), builder and concessionaire of the NLEX, has undertaken a P119.32- million drainage improvement program to reduce flooding along the NLEX.

The program includes the P69.32million drainage improvement along the Balintawak Cloverleaf and the P50- million project in Valenzuela City.

The drainage enhancement works at the Balintawak Cloverleaf, which started on Feb. 14 and will end on June 30, include the construction of a pumping facility and a sump or a water detention tank to mitigate flooding along the NLEX roadway in the area.

MNTC president and CEO Rodrigo E. Franco explained that, aside from improving the existing drainage system, the company aims to provide convenient travel despite inclement weather conditions.

“The welfare of motorists is our prime concern that is why we want to ensure safe passage for them during rainy season,” Franco said.

Franco also assured motorists of unhampered traffic, while drainage enhancement works are undertaken. Only one lane will be closed during the construction period, and patrol and traffic teams are ready to assist affected motorists. This is made possible due to a joint effort with the Tollways Management Corp. ( TMC), Metro Manila Development Authority ( MMDA) and local traffic authorities.

The construction works cover four lanes of Balintawak northbound and are being done from Monday to Thursday, 10 p. m. to 4 a. m.

MNTC earlier enhanced the drainage system in Valenzuela southbound which also involved the construction of a pumping facility and a sump. The project was substantially completed in March this year, and is now due for final testing and commissioning.