MMDA: Christmas lanes ease EDSA traffic flow

MANILA, Philippines - Traffic flow along EDSA became lighter as more and more private motorists started using the designated alternate routes or “Christmas lanes,” the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said yesterday.

However, MMDA chairman Francis Tolentino said “we expect that traffic in some parts of Metro Manila will be tight as there are bazaars and night markets.”

One particular bottleneck identified by the MMDA is Granada street in San Juan City, part of an alternate route for motorists going from Mandaluyong and Makati to Quezon City. Tolentino said he has asked the city government for help to address the traffic slowdown, caused by buyers of Christmas lanterns crowding around shops that line the street.

Tolentino is urging private motorists use the alternate routes instead in passing through Metro Manila, instead of going through EDSA, where traffic is expected to be slow-moving in areas near large shopping malls and commercial districts.

The designated Christmas lanes can be viewed at the MMDA’s website, www.mmda.gov.ph. The MMDA said the lanes can be open for use within this week.