The rainy season is just around the corner, and while we welcome the end of the hot summer, a lot of motorists might not be too happy to welcome the return of the rainy season problems like flooding and traffic jams.
Here in Metro Manila, besides floodwaters, another big cause of traffic during rainy season are the motorcycle riders who take shelter under EDSA's bridges, flyovers and MRT stations to put on their raincoats. With the huge number of riders on the roads, those seeking shelter can quickly take over a lane or more of the precious dry spaces, blocking passing cars and making the traffic even worse.
Yesterday, April 26, Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) traffic boss Edison "Bong" Nebrija seems intent on ending the practice and posted this reminder on his Facebook page.
"Sa mga riders who are doing this please be responsible and do not obstruct the road for your own convenience. Take secondary roads or gasoline stations to put on your raincoats or if you really wanna weather it out please do not do it sa Edsa mismo, nakakahiya naman po sa ibang road users na maabala.
#KapoteRiders
Using the word "obstruct" on his FB post rings a loud, familiar bell as "obstruction" is a traffic violation under the MMDA’s penalty code.
This violation means they are blocking the free passage of vehicles along public roads. It also includes the act of driving in a manner that can impede the flow of traffic. This violation has a penalty of PHP 150 for the first, second, and third offenses.
Reading between the lines, Nebrija's reminder can be construed as a warning that riders should not take shelter under the flyover bridges because it can interfere with the security, safety, and orderliness of traffic, especially along EDSA.
Unless of course, they'd want to take obstruction tickets every time they do.
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