MMDA defends controversial Edsa-Kamuning footbridge

A footbridge constructed by the MMDA along EDSA Kamuning in Quezon City went viral over social media as netizens commented that its height was too high and might cause inconvenience to persons with disabilities, senior citizens and pregnant women. (Photo courtesy of Facebook/Macky Fernando via PNA)

MANILA — A footbridge along Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (Edsa) in Kamuning, Quezon City was constructed to provide a safe option for passengers crossing the major thoroughfare and to prevent accidents.

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Jose Arturo Garcia Jr. made this reaction Tuesday after photos of the footbridge went viral on social media, as netizens commented that it was too high and might cause inconvenience to persons with disabilities (PWDs), senior citizens and pregnant women.

The MMDA official said the footbridge was constructed in the area following incidents of passengers being run over by vehicles while crossing Edsa.

“We need to know the purpose for the design of the footbridge. Sa lugar na yan marami nang aksidente; tumatawid ang tao pumupunta sa ilalim. Ang daming naho-hold up diyan. Kaya namin inilagay yan para may option ang tao kaysa makipagpatintero ka sa mga kotse at kay kamatayan may footbridge diyan (Many accidents have occurred in that area; people are crossing along the road. There were many hold-up incidents as well.

The reason why we put this up is to provide options to people rather than racing with vehicles risking death there in this footbridge),” Garcia said in a television interview.

He said the footbridge may not be used by the elderly, PWDs and pregnant women but only those able-bodied pedestrians who want to cross to the other side of the street quickly and safely.

“The main purpose of the footbridge is for people to safely cross on the other side of the street. The footbridge provides maximum comfort for pedestrians,” Garcia said.

The MMDA is constructing a nine-meter steel footbridge on top of the MRT-3 line along Edsa-Kamuning.

The agency noted that the height must be at least three to four meters above the power lines of the MRT-3.

The MMDA has allocated a budget of PHP10 million for the construction of the footbridge.

It is also looking for funding to provide an escalator for the bridge.

The footbridge is expected to be completed on November 15.