MMDA sets up EDSA motorcycle lay-by shelters for rainy days

MMDA puts up emergency lay-bys for motorcyclists to use in times of rain

While there are those who are frustrated that riders park under flyovers, MRT stations, and footbridges to wait out the downpour, we understand their plight. It's not good to be exposed to so much rain. But there is still the issue of heavy traffic buildup whenever that happens. Technically it's obstruction.

To address this, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) recently came up with a solution to help motorcycle riders in times of heavy rainfall.

The MMDA just opened an emergency lay-by at the ground level of the Quezon Avenue Flyover on EDSA. Here, motorcycle riders that need to seek shelter during a heavy downpour can park without fear of being in the way of other vehicles along the major roadway. The Quezon Avenue Flyover lay-by has allotted spaces for motorcycles to use and comes with designated entrance and exit signs.

“We understand the plight of motorcycle riders when they have to stop in the middle of the road while waiting for the rain to stop, it’s very risky for them because they might get into a road accident. At least with the emergency lay-by, they can take cover during heavy rains,” said Benhur Abalos, MMDA Chairman.

Abalos wishes to remind motorcyclists that these lay-bys can only be used during times of rain. To ensure that this is followed, MMDA personnel will be assigned at the emergency lay-bys to prohibit parking in the area.

“Motorcyclists would be allowed to stay only when it is raining. No parking shall be allowed or they shall receive a violation ticket for illegal parking,” added Abalos.

Aside from the one in Quezon Avenue Flyover, the MMDA also plans on putting up more covered lay-bys along EDSA and in other major roadways:

If you're riding on EDSA, you can take shelter at a designated motorcycle lay-by at GMA Kamuning, Kamias, Santolan/Crame, Ortigas, Buendia, Tramo (left turning), and Roxas Boulevard.

For motorcycle riders on C-5, you can take shelter at a motorcycle lay-by on Tandang Sora, Aurora Boulevard, C-5/Libis, Pasig Boulevard, and the under the C-5 Kalayaan elevated U-turn.

For those along Roxas Boulevard, there will be a shelter at Roxas Jr. flyover, Buendia flyover, and at the Roxas Boulevard-EDSA flyover on Seaside Drive.

Riders on SLEX will have access to a sheltered lay-by under the Metro Manila Skyway (toll road) near SLEX South Station toll gate and South Luzon Expressway (toll road) near Alabang Purple Hill.

Motorcycle riders will also be able to seek shelter along Paranaque-Sucat Road and along Chapel Road once the MMDA clears the areas of debris and obstruction.

With the rainy season now in full swing, the new emergency lay-bys will help motorcycle riders from the elements. Let's just hope that motorcycle riders will actually make use of these lay-bys during times of rain.