CITOM impounds 2 rollers

CEBU, Philippines - Two machines used in an asphalting project along General Maxilom Extension at past 5 a.m. yesterday were impounded by the City Traffic Operations Management.

A pneumatic roller and a road roller, both owned by a private contractor undertaking the project, are now in the CITOM impounding area.

CITOM operations officer Jonathan Tumulak said the laborers were still working their asphalting project at 5:33 a.m. even if Mayor Michael Rama had already ordered that construction and road repair works shall be done only from 9 p.m. until 5 a.m. so it will not obstruct the flow of traffic.

Tumulak said the heavy equipment were brought to CITOM's impounding area in North Reclamation Area while waiting for the mayor's further instruction.

Rama said the apprehension of said heavy equipments shows that the city government is serious in banning road construction and repair during daytime.

The asphalting work in the said area is a project of the Department of Public Works and Highways undertaken by the Worldwide Construction, although the impounded heavy equipments are owned by Socor Construction, Tumulak said.

When asked if  the city will require the contractor to pay the corresponding fine, the mayor said he will decide on the matter today.

Acting City Engineer Jose Marie Poblete said the city had already informed DPWH District Engineer Nicomedes Leonor that Rama does not want any road construction and repair projects to be undertaken during daytime.

The mayor observed that a road asphalting project along Escario Street last week had caused traffic congestion which prompted him to issue the order. (FREEMAN)