HPG warned on dangers of concrete barriers

MANILA, Philippines - A road safety advocate has cautioned the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) regarding its plan to replace plastic traffic barriers along EDSA with concrete ones, citing the danger they pose to the lives of motorists.

Aris Ilagan said concrete barriers could kill if a motorist hits it at a speed beyond 60 kilometers per hour.

HPG director Chief Superintendent Arnold Gunnacao earlier announced a plan to switch to concrete barriers after a number of motorists had sideswiped the plastic barriers, causing accidents along EDSA.

“There were complaints regarding the plastic barriers so we plan to replace these with concrete ones, which will be narrower to prevent accidents,” Gunnacao said.

A plastic barrier, which is filled with water, is bulkier and thicker by 10 inches.

Ilagan said the HPG plan is dangerous and merely a “band-aid solution” to the problem.

He said motorists, particularly bus drivers, usually hit the concrete barriers at night or early in the morning when visibility is poor.

Ilagan urged the HPG to hold consultations first with road safety groups before implementing the plan.