NEWS

By Myla Iglesias

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is on track to expedite the completion of two railway projects which form part of the North-South Commuter Railway project.

During the recent meeting of the DOTr rail officials with the Bulacan local government, Arthur Tugade, transportation secretary, discussed the smooth and efficient way to implement railway projects in Bulacan.

DOTr said it is focused on the completion of two railway projects, the Philippine National Railways (PNR) Clark Phase 1 and PNR Clark Phase 2.

For PNR Clark Phase 1, Tugade said the rail line from Tutuban, Manila to Malolos, Bulacan is two to three months ahead of its construction schedule.

He added that 24/7 construction works have been implemented since July to achieve partial operability by the fourth quarter of 2021.

Tugade also mentioned that bidding for PNR Clark Phase 2, running from Malolos to Clark, has received worldwide attention, following the recent opening of bids where nine international and two local companies participated.

Tugade assured local and provincial officials that the ongoing projects of the government will continue to move forward until completed.

Local officials, for their part, raised concerns and clarifications on certain issues such as the provision of accessibility for senior citizens and persons with disabilities in train stations, proper relocation of affected families, desired designs per train station based on the history of each municipality, provision of an easier access to the airport, and reduction of road congestion.

In response, Tugade and Junn Magno, PNR general manager, acknowledged these concerns and vowed to accommodate solutions that will expedite the completion of projects.

Tugade also suggested the conduct of regular meetings to fast-track railway projects and immediately address lingering issues.

Source: Malaya