Expect 10% more traffic at NLEX amid Holy Week
In anticipation of a mass exodus and heavy traffic in the expressways during the Holy Week, NLEX Corporation said it will be on "full alert" from March 22 to April 1 as it expects a 10 percent increase in traffic volume in multiple points of the expressway.
In an advisory released Thursday, March 21, the company shared that travelers heading north will begin multiplying by 10 a.m. on March 27 until 2 p.m. on March 28.
Manila-bound motorists may experience high volume traffic from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. on March 30 and from 2 p.m. on March 31 to 8 a.m. on April 1.
Given this, NLEX Corporation has planned alternative routes, additional lanes and ramp expansions for motorists travelling to and from the north.
In Meycauayan Northbound area, F. Raymundo Northbound Exit in Barangay Pandayan was set up as an alternative route for class 1 vehicles heading towards the eastern side of Meycauayan an Marilao, Bulacan.
An added lane was made available at Meycauayan Northbound Exit ramp for vehicles bound to Malhacan, while the leftmost and middle lanes are for motorists heading to Iba or Camalig.
The company also expanded the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) ramp from Tarlac to NLEX in Mabalacat, Pampanga.
Another lane for vehicles coming from SCTEX heading to NLEX is also being constructed with other works expected to be done before the Holy Week.
“We are hoping that these decongestion projects, alongside with other measures, will contribute to a more manageable traffic flow this Holy Week,” said NLEX Corporation President and General Manager J. Luigi L. Bautista in a statement.
The Holy Week mass exodus has prompted the reactivation of NLEX's motorist assistance program "Safe Trip Mo, Sagot Ko" (SMSK).
Around 1,500 traffic, toll and system personnel have been deployed all over NLEX, especially in high traffic areas, including rest and refuel stations. Incident response teams, tow trucks, and fire trucks have also been situated in strategic points of the expressway.
Roadworks and lane closures in NLEX, SCTEX, and NLEX Connector were also suspended.
“As we expect a huge number of vehicles, we appeal to the public for extra patience, cooperation, and discipline. For our part, NLEX will maximize its assets to ensure managed traffic flow, but for a hassle-free travel, make sure that you are in good fit before you drive, observe proper distancing and follow traffic regulations. Also, have your cars and RFID checked ahead of your trip,” Bautista said.