LRMC intensifies disinfection of LRT-1 trains

MANILA, Philippines — The Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) is upgrading its disinfection measures through the use of Ultraviolet C (UVC) technology as part of anti-coronavirus disease 2019 initiatives, the Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC) said yesterday.

LRMC, private operator of LRT-1, said the UVC technology would be essential in making sure that the LRT-1 trains, facilities and stations remain virus-free when the railway reopens once the modified enhanced community quarantine or MECQ is lifted in Metro Manila.

The LRMC has partnered with the University of the Philippines Diliman’s National Engineering Center (UPNEC) in developing disinfection equipment using UVC technology.

At present, the LRMC is using a prototype handheld and 360-degree UVC lamps from UPNEC as well as the 180-degree UVC lamps procured from Taiwan to complement its chemical disinfection inside the trains and stations.

The UVC lamps will be used daily for every train at the end stations (Roosevelt and Baclaran), with an interval of five minutes.

The lamps will also be used during the nightly sanitation activities at the LRT-1 depot facility.

“We are looking for ways to innovate and explore better alternatives to ensure that the LRT-1 is safe for our passengers and employees,” LRMC head of health, safety, environment and quality Andrea Madrid said.

The company has placed safety protocols at the LRT-1 stations such as foot baths, drying pads and daily health checks for employees.

Portion of SLEX closed

Starting today, two southbound lanes of the western section of the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) will be closed to traffic until June 9.

In a public advisory issued yesterday, the Department of Public Works and Highways said the closure would give way for the bored piling works for the Sucat-Alabang Extension project.

Motorists are advised to use alternative routes during the road closure.

With the possible lifting of MECQ in Metro Manila and Region 4-A by June 1, the SLEX management expects an increase in the number of  motorists.

The concessionaire hopes to finish piling works within 10 days instead of the original 15 days.

The scheduled opening of the SLEX western section will be reset between June 7 and 9. Ghio Ong