NLEX ready for surge in traffic volume

MANILA, Philippines — The North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) Corp. is gearing up for the expected increase in traffic volume this Christmas and New Year holidays.

Beginning yesterday until Jan. 3 next year, the tollway company is beefing up its operations along the NLEX-SCTEX as part of its motorist assistance program.

NLEX has fielded 1,200 patrol crews, traffic marshals, security teams and toll lane personnel to assist motorists and ensure the smooth flow of traffic.

The company said traffic management teams are monitoring the toll plazas in Balintawak, Mindanao, Karuhatan, Bocaue, San Simon, San Fernando, Tarlac and Tipo as a high number of vehicles is expected in these areas.

Emergency medical services and incident response teams will be prepositioned at strategic areas for immediate deployment.

During the specified period, the company said construction and lane closures along the NLEX-SCTEX would be suspended unless safety repairs are necessary.

“As always, we are committed to keep the traffic flowing smoothly so motorists will get to their destinations quickly, safely and comfortably,” NLEX president and general manager Luigi Bautista said.

The toll company encouraged motorists to use RFID for faster and safer transaction.

NLEX said those who have no RFID sticker may have it installed for free in any of the Easytrip installation sites and pay the initial load.

Existing RFID users are advised to ensure that they have enough load while those with concerns should have their stickers checked at the nearest Easytrip station.

NLEX also reminded motorists paying in cash to always take the rightmost lanes at the toll plazas and observe courtesy by not skipping the line.