More traffic expected as EDSA sidewalks undergo rehabilitation

Major rehabilitation work on sidewalks covering the entire stretch of EDSA is expected to result in heavy traffic for the next three weeks.

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Robert Nacianceno said the agency is asking the public to bear with the temporary inconvenience which, in the end, would benefit both motorists and pedestrians.

He said sidewalks of the 22-kilometer highway will be re-constructed to meet safety standards.

"This are not just repairs, but actual rehabilitation which would cover 44 kilometers of road since we have the northbound and southbound lanes," Nacianceno explained.

He noted that the actual elevation level of EDSA’s sidewalks currently measure six to eight inches when it should be 10.

Nacianceno said the standard height must be followed to prevent vehicles from climbing over pedestrian walkways.

"We will also be removing anything along the path like plant boxes or structures that are not supposed to be there or were caused by construction defects," he said.

Nacianceno said the MMDA expects to finish the rehabilitation work by the first week of November based on the projections of contractors.

He said billboard dismantling and concrete re-blocking operations on EDSA will also continue this week.

"Konti na lang naman yung mga billboards so malapit na din matapos," Nacianceno said, adding that enough traffic enforcers would be fielded to manage traffic especially during rush hour.

MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando, after receiving complaints, instructed those tearing down billboards not to operate during rush hours. – Michael Punongbayan