DOTC to ease traffic, pollution

The Department of Transportation and Communications has issued directives to put order to the chaotic traffic situation in Metro Manila.

DOTC Secretary Pantaleon Alvarez announced the measures to relieve traffic gridlock and also protect the riding public. Among them are:

• The strict implementation of the "yellow bus line" along EDSA, which restricts passenger buses to the outer two lanes bounded by a yellow line;

• A task force to go after abusive taxi drivers who choose which passengers to take in and who do not use the required taxi meters;

• A no-nonsense anti-smoke belching campaign to ease worsening air pollution;

• A "three-strikes-and-you’re-out" policy against smoke-belchers and colorum bus operators

• Full implementation of the 20 percent fare discount to senior citizens on all modes of transportation nationwide;

• Replacement of old LRT rolling stocks with airconditioned units within the next two years.

"We are instituting these measures in response to the clamor of the riding public and motorists, for improved traffic and safety conditions on the roads," Alvarez said. "We are fully aware of the situation and we will continuously act on the problems of our citizens."

Alvarez urged the public to report to his office abusive and ill-disciplined transport operators and drivers.