Brace for more traffic — DPWH

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) yesterday said that motorists should prepare for even worse road congestion as potholes, exposed by recent torrential rains, are sure to slow down traffic in Metro Manila today.

The agency said that though massive asphalt patching operations are not due to start until late this morning so as not to aggravate gridlock in major thoroughfares during the Monday morning rush, there will still be some inconveniences.

DPWH Assistant Secretary Yabut said workers would be dispatched to Roxas Boulevard, South Superhighway, EDSA and A. Bonifacio Avenue, among others, to cover the deep holes that were washed open by floods that struck the metropolis last week.

"Some of these potholes were temporarily covered with gravel so we do not expect much problem," said Yabut.

He disclosed, though, that road repairs in the said areas will take some time as potholes would be carved into squares before asphalt is poured into it to give it "more adhesion."

Yabut could not give an assessment on the extent of the road repairs needed but he said it is usually less than one percent of the country’s road network. DPWH has yet to come out with an official infrastructure damage report from the recent heavy rains.

"As long as weather is good today, we can start our work right away," he assured.