IN an effort to prevent severe traffic congestion during the upcoming holiday season, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is appealing to mall operators to refrain from holding mall-wide sales in the weeks leading up to Christmas.
While acknowledging the economic benefits of such sales, the MMDA is concerned that they will exacerbate already heavy traffic conditions. MMDA Chairman Don Artes clarified that the agency is not placing blame on mall owners but is seeking their cooperation to manage traffic flow.
The MMDA anticipates a similar surge in vehicle volume as last year, when the number of motorists on EDSA exceeded road capacity by a significant margin. During the first two weeks of December, the number of vehicles observed along EDSA surged from the road’s capacity of 250,000 to over 450,000.
“We understand the importance of mall sales for businesses and consumers, but we are also mindful of the potential impact on traffic,” said Chairman Artes. “We are appealing to mall owners to consider postponing or staggering their sales events to help ease congestion during the busiest time of the year.”
The MMDA is currently coordinating with local government units and mall operators to develop a comprehensive traffic management plan for the holiday season. This plan may include adjusted mall hours, increased deployment of traffic enforcers, and enhanced public transportation options.
metrosundaily
