Green Loop to solve Cebu traffic problem

CEBU, Philippines - A green approach to solving perennial traffic woes is conceptualized by Cebuano environmentalists and a test run in Cebu city is set next month.

Green Loop, according to environmentalist lawyer Antonio Oposa, is a gradual way to change the mindset and notion on road utilization in the country.

“Green loop is a big dream that shows how to develop Cebu. Transport module is the most critical component of development. Road sharing solves congestion problem,” explained Oposa.

As designed, motorized and non-motorized vehicles will be dedicated one lane each to utilize.

The lane immediately beside the center island is designated to be occupied by motorized vehicles while the outer lane, beside the sidewalk, is for bikes and pedestrians who wish to walk.

Under non-motorized are bicycles, as well as pedestrians, which can freely ply the assigned road without competing with motorized vehicles, thereby erasing risks of accidents.

The pilot loop route will be from B. Rodriguez Street, General Maxilom Avenue, Gorordo Avenue, Escario Street, and back to Maxilom via portion of Osmeña Boulevard near the provincial Capitol.

While there has been no definite date yet, City Traffic Operations Management Office executive director lawyer Rafael Christopher Yap said the road-sharing activity will be at the latter part of September.

“We will have it probably by the end of September. We want to see first the success of the activity before concluding if this is doable in the city. But on a personal note, it can be done as this has been applied in other countries like Korea and Japan. It’s not a question of space but management. And proper coordination,” Yap said.

Contrary to previous road-sharing activities where concerns on information dissemination were raised, the transport sector pledged participation and cooperation.

National Confederation of Transport Workers Union president Romeo Armamento said they support this effort believing that less traffic congestion promotes more income for drivers and operators.

“Proper explanation of benefits to member drivers will make them understand and participate in the activity. We intend to personally discuss this with the affected drivers of the route,” Armamento said.

Among the affected jeepney routes include those for 04C, 14D, 12L, 06C, 06B, 15, 17B, 17C, and 04H.

Extending their support to the efforts on their personal capacity were Department of Environment and Natural Resources-7regional executive director Isabelo Montejo, Metropolitan Cebu Water District general manager Ernie Delco, Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Ma. Teresa Chan, and CITOM’s Yap.

Also in attendance in the press conference were members and convenors of the Movement for a Livable Cebu.

Architect Joy Onozawa said they had a meeting with Department of Public Works and Highways-7 regional director Ador Canlas and the agency is supportive as well.

Green Loop layout is designed by the University of San Carlos College of Architecture and Fine Arts. — (FREEMAN)