In a collaborative effort involving the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and other relevant government bodies, a study is underway to explore the feasibility of implementing a dedicated motorcycle lane along the congested 23.8-kilometer stretch of Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA).
According to data from the DOTr, an estimated 170,000 motorcycles traverse EDSA on a daily basis, contributing significantly to the existing traffic congestion.
Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista disclosed plans to designate a specific lane for motorcycles adjacent to the existing bicycle lane, aiming to alleviate traffic congestion while accommodating the growing number of motorcycle commuters.
"Given that nearly all lanes on EDSA are utilized by motorcycles, we are collaborating with the MMDA to devise solutions to improve traffic conditions," Bautista stated, highlighting the urgency of addressing the issue.
The initiative also seeks to mitigate the economic repercussions of traffic congestion, as emphasized by Bautista, citing a 2017 study by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The study revealed that traffic congestion in Metro Manila incurs an economic cost of P3.5 billion per day, a figure projected to escalate to P4.9 billion by 2022 and P9 billion by 2030.
Bautista elaborated on the multifaceted economic impact of traffic congestion, which includes additional fuel expenses, logistical costs, missed opportunities for economic growth, and reduced quality time with family.
Notably, the MMDA had previously contemplated a shared bicycle-motorcycle lane; however, the proposal failed to materialize, prompting a reevaluation of alternative strategies to address the persistent traffic woes along EDSA.
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