Emano calls for coordination, review of DPWH overpass project amid traffic issues

Councilor Yevonna Yacine B. Emano stressed the importance of coordination between the national government and the local government unit before implementing any road project so as not to cause obstruction and traffic congestion in the city streets.

This was her reaction to the special report of Councilor Eric D. Salcedo about the road obstructions resulting from the construction of a pedestrian overpass in the uptown area.

The lady councilor emphasized that under the Local Government Code, the implementation of national government projects, including those by the DPWH, should be coordinated with the LGU, particularly when such projects significantly affect traffic flow and public convenience.

She recalled that during the previous City Council, the matter of coordination for national government projects had already been raised in the committee on public utilities.

At that time, the committee asked national agencies to closely coordinate their projects with the LGU to avoid traffic-related and implementation issues.

While acknowledging the worsening traffic conditions in the uptown area, Emano expressed support for the proposal of Councilor Roger Abaday to consider alternatives instead of halting the project.

These include adjusting construction working hours to avoid peak hours, possibly scheduling work at night, or modifying the construction barriers to help ease congestion.

She cautioned that stopping the project entirely could place the LGU in a difficult position, noting that the project has been ongoing for some time.

Emano proposed that the issue be further investigated and referred to the appropriate committee to identify practical solutions that would address traffic concerns without compromising the completion of the national infrastructure project. (JAO/SP)