City moves to clean major sidewalks

CEBU, Philippines — Shortly after the launch of the Sidewalk Clean-Up Drive, the Cebu City Government has cleared nearly 30 kilometers of sidewalks along major streets, advancing its campaign to make public walkways safer, more accessible, and free of hazards.

Implemented through the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CCDRRMO), the initiative began last month to restore sidewalks to their intended use by removing obstructions that endanger pedestrians and affect the safe flow of traffic.

According to the latest report from the CCDRRMO, clearing operations have covered approximately 29.828 kilometers of sidewalks along 17 major streets so far.

The clearing operations have reached portions of Barangays Sto. Niño, Kalubihan, Sambag II, Sta. Cruz, Sambag I, Capitol Site, Pahina Central, Day-as, T. Padilla, Lorega San Miguel, Cogon Ramos, San Antonio, Zapatera, Carreta, Hipodromo, Mabolo, Kamagayan, Talamban, and the Cebu Port Area.

The clean-up operations involved the removal of dangling wires, protruding objects, unauthorized structures, overgrown vegetation, and other obstructions occupying pedestrian pathways.

It was noted that these hazards not only restrict the safe passage of pedestrians but also contribute to traffic risks and limit accessibility, particularly for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable road users.

Beyond improving safe access, the initiative also enhances public safety by clearing visual obstructions that block the view of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras and solar-powered street lights. Restoring visibility and proper illumination is expected to strengthen surveillance coverage and improve security in public spaces.

The campaign has likewise generated a significant volume of collected waste and debris. As of the latest update, the city has hauled and properly disposed of 88 dump truck loads and 58 mini dump truck loads of materials removed from sidewalks during the operations.

The Sidewalk Clean-Up Drive forms part of the Cebu City Government's broader efforts to promote a Smart, Sustainable, and Inclusive city through safer, cleaner, and more resilient public spaces.

Sidewalk clearing has long been among the measures adopted by local governments to improve urban mobility, reduce accident risks, and strengthen disaster preparedness. — (FREEMAN)