Commonwealth routes closed due to MRT-7 construction
Commuters depend on public transportation on a daily basis. While jeepneys and UV express are common ways to commute from one location to another, one cannot deny the utilities of MRT, LRT, and PNRs. This is particularly important for those who reside in locations further and beyond the metro.
However, now that MRT-7 ‘s construction is underway, some routes will be temporarily closed and commuters will have to resort to alternate routes.
MRT-7 construction
Image credit: Art Tugade via Facebook
The Metro Rail Transit Line 7 (MRT-7) is an elevated rapid line spanning 22-km long that’s currently under construction. According to the Department of Transportation (DOTr), this line will be the first to have a third rail electrification. Moreover, the line will have 14 stations that’ll run from the North Avenue in Quezon City to San Jose del Monte in Bulacan.
Image credit: Art Tugade via Facebook
Once it’s completed, the new line will be able to carry about 300,000 passengers daily with 28,000 passengers per hour in each direction. It’s capable to carry even more – up to 850,000 passengers daily – when upgrades finish. Having started in April 2016, DOTr expects that this new line will be fully operational by 2025.
Temporarily closed routes and routes to take note
Image credit: Department of Transportation – Philippine via Facebook
Aside from details about MRT-7, DOTr announced the specific parts of Commonwealth Avenue that’ll be temporarily closed. Two lanes between Regalado Avenue and Fairlane Street will be closed for four months each.
The westbound lane will be closed from 25th July to 26th November 2023, 10pm to 5am. Along with this, there will be road closure from 25th July to 16th August.
Image credit: Department of Transportation – Philippine via Facebook
The eastbound lane, on the other hand, will be closed from 8th August to 6th December 2023, 10pm to 5am.
Alternate routes going to Quezon Memorial Circle and SM Fairview
Image adapted from: Department of Transportation – Philippine, Department of Transportation – Philippine via Facebook
DOTr also recommended alternate routes of going to Quezon Memorial Circle and SM Fairview. You can visit their page for more details and information.
Traffic advisories for easy navigation
If you’re a daily commuter taking these aforementioned routes, then you’ll find that adjusting to new routes won’t easy. Thankfully, DOTr provided these advisories to us beforehand so that commuters can familiarize themselves accordingly.
After all, the new line will be beneficial to all frequent MRT commuters. No doubt that the breezy travel will be worth the wait.
For local commuters, check out how to book tickets on the Cebu South Bus Terminal app. For more current affairs in the Philippines, visit The Smart Local Philippines.
Cover image adapted from: patrickroque01 via Wikipedia
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