Last Monday, the PNP-HPG and the MMDA began enforcing the so-called "yellow or bus lane" on EDSA. The rule will be strictly enforced from Shaw Blvd. to Buendia Ave. Private vehicles cannot use these lanes which are strictly for buses. Motorists who still used the lanes were given a warning, being the first day of the implementation. But they have begun making arrests for those who still insist on using the lanes. Already the authorities are saying that enforcing the "yellow lanes" have resulted in faster speeds for public utility buses, having that part of EDSA all to themselves. They are now studying if they should enforce the rule for the whole stretch of EDSA. Travel time of public utility buses should shorten considerably, especially the point-to-point buses.
But honestly, that "yellow lane" rule has been in place for years. It just hasn't been strictly enforced by the MMDA over time. The Monday implementation caused some confusion on that part of EDSA. And it only takes one confused driver on EDSA to initiate a snarl. Another problem I see with regards to strictly enforcing the "yellow lane" rule have to do with vehicles that have to make a turn. I already see arrows painted on EDSA, but they are just too near the corners of where vehicles turn. These are accidents waiting to happen if drivers have to follow these arrows. There is also the problem of abusive enforcers who will cite "swerving" to apprehend drivers. But how else can one make a turn this close to the corner?
There should also be adequate warnings and information about any changes. I remember a former MMDA chairman who would change things on the road without adequate warning. U-turns were suddenly created or closed, especially in Katipunan Avenue. We have to accept that fact that many Filipino drivers do not pay attention to road signs. So just putting up signs does not really translate to adequate information nor warning. It has to be broadcast on TV and radio, and there should still be enforcers around.
I also have to stress that there are many rules of the road which are totally ignored, especially by motorcycles, tricycles and pedicabs. As if the rules just do not apply to them. Entering one-way streets, counterflowing, plying roads where tricycles are actually forbidden among other things. There are vehicles that still park on forbidden areas. If authorities are going to start being strict, then the rules have to apply to everyone. I am certain there will be this VIP who thinks he can still use the "yellow lanes" because of how he thinks of himself. I hope authorities do not let them slide. That is, if they even stop or are even hailed by the HPG or MMDA. With the kind of traffic each one of us has to endure everyday, no one should be given special treatment except for those authorized by law.