New Skyway traffic measures announced

INQUIRER file photo

TO EASE heavy traffic congestion from between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. on weekdays at the southbound Bicutan and Sucat at-grade sections, Skyway operator Skyway O&M Corp. (Somco) opened alternative exits along West Service Road under the elevated toll plazas at Dona Soledad and Dr. A. Santos. Signs leading to alternative exits are up.
Meanwhile, to facilitate traffic flow during peak hours and to mitigate the occurrence of road incidents, traffic counter-flow is being implemented at the Skyway Main Plaza A and B at the Alabang elevated portion from 4 a.m. to 9 a.m for northbound (NB) traffic, and 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. for southbound (SB) traffic.

For operational efficiency, the NB pay-at-entry and SB pay-at-exit scheme is in effect at the Skyway’s elevated section. As needed, traffic counter-flow measure is also being implemented at the NB Alabang-Sucat at-grade portion at the NB NAIA-Buendia elevated stretch.

To immediately remove obstructions caused by road incidents and stalled vehicles, six AAP towing equipment are strategically positioned at the NB and SB sides of the Skyway for prompt response to emergencies. Additional emergency bays have also been constructed.

In analyzing the traffic situation at the Skyway System with a view to effect traffic enhancement measures, Somco had noted that congestion on the at-gradeand elevated sections of the Skyway is often caused by traffic congestion outside its area of jurisdiction.
Traffic slowdown on local and national roads in its immediate vicinities like Alabang, Sucat, Bicutan Taguig, Pasay, Makati and Edsa tends to spill over into the tollway. During peak hours and days when traffic volume is at its highest, queuing at the toll plazas compounded by road accidents and stalled vehicles also cause traffic build up inside the tollway.
Somco continuously plans to implement more long-term measures to ensure that traffic flows more efficiently at the Skyway, and that motorists are safe and comfortable.
For assistance, call the Skyway hotlines at 7767777 and (0917) 5398762 for assistance, and to report stalled vehicles and other road incidents, or check Skyway’s Twitter account @SkywaySOMCO for real-time traffic updates.