The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) unveiled its emergency lay-by at the ground level of the Quezon Avenue Flyover on EDSA where motorcycle riders can seek shelter during heavy rain.
MMDA Chairman Benhur Abalos said motorcycle riders would be allowed to stop at the emergency lay-by when raining so they do not block the highway while waiting for the rain to stop.
“We understand the plight of motorcycle riders when they have to stop in the middle of the road while waiting for the rain to stop, it’s very risky for them because they might get into a road accident. At least with the emergency lay-by, they can take cover during heavy rains,” Abalos explained.
The emergency lay-by has allotted spaces for motorcycles to use – with designated entrance and exit signs.
The traffic chief reminded motorcyclists that the emergency lay-by is only a rain shelter.
MMDA personnel will be assigned at the emergency lay-by to prohibit parking in the area.
“Motorcyclists would be allowed to stay only when it is raining.”
“Motorcyclists would be allowed to stay only when it is raining. No parking shall be allowed or they shall receive violation tickets for illegal parking,” the traffic head stressed when he inspected the area recently.
Signage, displaying the regulations for the use of the emergency lay-by, are installed under the flyover.
“More emergency lay-by for motorcyclists shall also be put up under flyovers.”
He said more emergency lay-by for motorcyclists shall also be put up under flyovers located in the following:
Along EDSA: GMA Kamuning, Kamias, Santolan/Crame, Ortigas, Buendia, Tramo (left turning) and Roxas Boulevard
Along C5 Road: Tandang Sora, Aurora Boulevard, C5-Libis, Pasig Boulevard, C5 Kalayaan elevated U-turn along C5 Road
Along Roxas Boulevard: Roxas Jr. flyover, Buendia flyover, Roxas Boulevard-EDSA flyover Seaside Drive
Along Alabang Road: Metro Manila Skyway (toll road) near SLEX South Station toll gate, South Luzon Expressway (toll road) near Alabang Purple Hill
Along Paranaque-Sucat Road and Chapel Road once areas have been cleared of obstructions.
Meanwhile, the MMDA shall also put up pocket gardens under flyovers as part of its continuing effort to address the urban aesthetics of the metropolis and fight urban decay.
The project involves planting ornamental plants to beautify the surroundings and help reduce air pollution.
It can be recalled that the MMDA cleared the ground level of EDSA-Kamuning, Timog and Quezon flyovers of all types of clutter and obstructions, such as illegally-parked and abandoned vehicles in June this year.
The clearing operations, Abalos said, is aimed to ensure orderliness and cleanliness in Metro Manila.
