MANILA - The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) are evaluating the introduction of a designated motorcycle lane on Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA) as a new strategy to alleviate the chronic traffic congestion that plagues the 23.8-kilometer thoroughfare.
According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative aims to organize the flow of the estimated 170,000 motorcycles that traverse EDSA daily. Currently, EDSA includes a busway and a bicycle lane, and the proposed motorcycle lane would be situated adjacent to the bicycle lane. This plan seeks to enhance overall traffic management and utilize the available road space more effectively.
Bautista highlighted the significant economic losses due to traffic congestion in Metro Manila, referencing a study by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The study estimated that daily losses amounted to PHP 3.5 billion in 2017, escalated to PHP 4.9 billion in 2022, and are projected to soar to PHP 9 billion by 2030. These figures reflect the costs associated with additional fuel consumption, opportunity losses, and decreased quality of life.
The proposal for a motorcycle lane is part of broader efforts to improve transportation efficiency and reduce the economic burden of traffic delays. Previously, the MMDA considered implementing a shared lane for bicycles and motorcycles, but this idea was ultimately not implemented.