The traffic situation in Metro Manila is no better than how it was during the last two Administrations. While we can agree that solving the problem requires interventions that are long term in nature, no one can argue against the assertion that a lot can be done now.
One of the root causes of the worsening traffic problem in Metro Manila (and in other key cities in the country as well) is the ineffectiveness, if not outright inability, of concerned government agencies to enforce the applicable laws, rules and regulations.
Let us go back and begin with what is basic – traffic rules. Vehicular traffic rules were formulated to have order in our roads. Can concerned government agencies like the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the Department of Transportation (DOTr), and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) claim that there is strict enforcement of traffic rules in Metro Manila?
We do not need road, traffic or transportation experts to tell us that one of the most basic problems we have road chaos. There is simply and clearly no order in our roads because following the traffic rules has become optional rather than compulsory.
To what extent do drivers of public utility and private vehicles follow rules on loading and unloading of passengers?
It is usual and “acceptable” for public utility vehicles, particularly jeepneys and buses, to load and unload passengers at the middle of road in a “no loading and no unloading” zone.
To what extent is the rule against “colorum” public utility vehicles enforced? Can the concerned government agencies claim that Metro Manila roads are free of unauthorized vehicles?
To what extent have concerned government agencies enforced the regulation against jaywalking? Are the so-called “rugby boys,” street beggars and street vendors not covered by this regulation since there are still a lot of them in Metro Manila streets.
These are only a few of the basic traffic rules that are violated right under the nose of those who have been mandated to enforce them.
Will long-term interventions, which are mostly infrastructure in nature, make roads in Metro Manila and other key cities more orderly without addressing the weak (at best) enforcement of traffic rules?
Will we not simply expand chaos when we build more roads? Will an expanded mass rail transport network solve the urban road chaos because lesser people will be in need of buses, jeepneys and cars?
(To be continued) (Dr. Ramon Ricardo A. Roque, CESOI, Diplomate)