MMDA imposes fine vs. MRT-7 contractor for traffic gridlock

FILE: TRAFFIC IN QUEZON CITY. Expect heavy traffic within the area of Quezon Memorial Circle including Visayas Avenue due to the construction of MRT-7 at the Elliptical Road in Quezon City on Tuesday (January 8, 2019). (PNA photo by Gil Calinga)

MANILA — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Tuesday imposed a PHP25,000 fine against the Metro Rail Transit Line-7’s (MRT-7) contractor for causing a traffic gridlock along the Elliptical Road and North Ave. in Quezon City.

The MMDA issued a notice of violation to EEI Corp. for failing to inform the agency that the construction would occupy two lanes for the heavy equipment used in its excavation activities, which resulted in heavy traffic buildup in the area.

“We were surprised about the closure of two lanes without properly informing us of the exact date of the closure. The area became a chokepoint as lanes available for the motorists narrowed,” said MMDA general manager Jojo Garcia, who conducted an inspection of the construction work.

Garcia directed the contractor to install plates on the two affected lanes to make them passable to motorists.

He also ordered the firm to put yellow lane markings to prevent motorists from swerving or changing lanes, as well as traffic signage on merging lanes and other necessary adjustments.

The MMDA reminded private contractors to inform them of any change or movement in their construction activities for the agency to implement traffic management plans ahead of time for the convenience of motorists.

“We understand that the project is under the “Build, Build, Build” program of the government, which would later benefit motorists, but coordination is important to minimize inconvenience to motorists,” Garcia said.

The MRT-7 is envisioned to be a 22.

8-km. railway line that will consist of 14 stations, traversing from North Ave. in Quezon City to San Jose del Monte in Bulacan.