The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has asked the Department of Public Works and Highways to improve the lighting fixtures along the major thoroughfares, saying the problem is one of the causes of road accidents in the metropolis.
According to MMDA Chairman Benjamin Abalos Jr., street lights are important to lessen, if not avoid, fatal road accidents.
“Public safety is our utmost priority. Only one busted or broken light would endanger lives,” he said during his meeting with the officials of the DPWH and Department of Transportation last Wednesday.
“Without the street lights, our motorists and commuters are in danger. Part of road safety is making the road visible to all its users,” Abalos said.
DPWH undersecretary Robert Bernardo agreed to fix the street lights and to turn it over to the MMDA within 10 days. He said the DPWH will pay for the electric bill of all the road lights until the time it is transferred to the MMDA.
Bernardo, however, raised concern on the thieves stealing lights and other electrical fixtures on selected major thoroughfares, especially tunnels and underpasses.
“We will continue cooperation with the MMDA and the local government units to make sure that all the street lights are working,” he said.
Bernardo also warned those who are stealing electric materials that they will face charges as street lights are government property.
Abalos appealed for inter-agency collaboration to make sure that the major thoroughfares are maintained to be well-lit.
The DOTr, through road sector senior consultant Bert Suansing, expressed support for Abalos and his initiatives to alleviate traffic in Metro Manila, such as the construction of elevated bus ramps.