Binay pushes drive against air pollutants

The campaign against smoke belching vehicles in the metropolis will be intensified soon, Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Jejomar Binay disclosed yesterday.

In his weekly press conference, Binay said that more MMDA anti-smoke belching personnel will be deployed particularly along EDSA where the density of vehicles is high.

Based on the latest figures of the MMDA, an average of more than 100 vehicles are apprehended daily for smoke belching.

However, Binay noted the number of apprehensions will increase through the cooperation of the local government units in Metro Manila.

He noted that Makati City has already agreed to assist the MMDA in the government's anti-air pollution campaign. The MMDA is also currently trying to convince Quezon City Mayor Ismael Mathay Jr. to support the campaign by assigning more personnel.

On the part of the MMDA, Binay said that they have acquired 25 new motorcycles to enhance the mobility of its enforcers.

The MMDA is also studying the privatization of the smoke-emission testing particularly at the vehicle registration level.

Under the plan, motor vehicles to be registered with the Land Transportation Office will be tested for smoke emission levels by private firms that can perform other services such as engine calibration.

According to Binay, 70 to 80 percent of air pollution in Metro Manila can be attributed to smoke emissions from motor vehicles. --