NLEX to issue 3-hour flood closure advisories

The Department of Transportation (DOTr), through the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), has directed the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) Corporation to implement a faster and more efficient warning system for motorists during heavy rains and flooding. In a statement, Transportation Secretary Banoy Lopez said the timely advisories will help motorists along NLEX avoid flood-related traffic and identify alternative routes. In a letter to NLEX Corporation President and General Manager Luis Reñon, the TRB said the board expects the firm to monitor the water level of the Pampanga River and Tulaoc River. "Accordingly, as part of proactive measures moving forward, every time there is anticipated rainfall, TRB expects that NLEX Corporation will monitor the water level of the Pampanga River and Tulaoc River," the TRB letter said. "Should the water level approach the critical threshold, you are hereby directed to provide timely advisories to the motorists three hours before the expected rainfall through Variable Message Signs (VMS), portable VMS, and other communication platforms, that the San Simon-Pulilan Segment of NLEX will be closed to traffic and provide the affected motorists with an appropriate rerouting," it added. The TRB said the NLEX Corporation is directed to closely coordinate with the DOTr and TRB to ensure the timely implementation of appropriate flood mitigation measures and other necessary interventions, with the primary objective of ensuring the safety of the motoring public and minimizing traffic disruption. "Further, NLEX Corporation is also directed to consider the reimbursement of toll fees for motorists with Class 1 vehicles who were compelled to make a U-turn along NLEX due to the flooding incidents in the affected area," the TRB said. –NB, GMA News