6 roads targeted in MMDA experiments

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is set to convert six major thoroughfares into giant "rotundas" as part of the experiments aimed at improving the flow of traffic.

MMDA General Manager Robert Nacianceno said the experiments would be implemented next month on Gil Puyat Avenue (formerly Buendia), South Superhighway, Quirino Avenue, Quezon Avenue, Shaw Boulevard and the entire stretch of EDSA.

Dubbed as the Clearway System, the scheme intends to reduce or completely eliminate all stops at intersections of major thoroughfares.

The system is already in place at the Marcos Highway and Commonwealth Avenue, where improvement in the flow of traffic has been observed.

Nacianceno pointed out that the system has also been partially implemented along EDSA, but they are still studying how to reroute the vehicles at several intersections.

Except for a few roads such as Kamias and Ortigas Avenue, almost all of the intersections on EDSA have been affected by the system, which prevents vehicles from making left turns.

To reach their intended destinations, motorists have to take longer routes to make a U-turn or use the flyovers.

Nacianceno said the MMDA is currently conducting intensive roadside clearing operations particularly along EDSA as part of the program because there has to be no obstructions for the scheme to work.

He noted that the system was copied from Australia and Germany where traffic along the major roads is free-flowing and highly efficient.

"The idea is to speed up the movement of vehicles," Nacianceno said.