The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has announced it will fine motorcycle riders that shelter under flyovers and overpasses when it rains. According to the government agency, anyone caught doing the practice from August 1, 2023 onwards will be fined Php 1,000 as they will be considered obstructing the road of traffic.
Image via ABS-CBNWhile the MMDA completely understands why motorcycle riders go under flyovers and underpasses to seek shelter from the rains, the problem is that they usually block at least one lane of the road when doing so, which is very unsafe especially when it’s raining and when visibility is limited.
The MMDA for their part has said that they have reached out to gas stations to put up tents to wait out the rain, especially during the rainy season.
“Open naman po sila although hindi po natin syempre pwede pilitin agad-agad na mag-desisyon sila. Pero nag-manifest naman sila ng openess and willingness to help,” said agency chair Romando Artes.
“Isa po sa kanilang concern ay baka mag-spill-over sa kanilang mga pumps at makaharang sa kanilang operasyon yung set of regulations in case pumayag sila,” he added.