MMDA installs portable rotunda at Ayala-EDSA intersection

MANILA, Philippines - The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Thursday installed the first of two portable wooden roundabouts or rotundas at the intersection of Ayala Avenue and EDSA in line with its plan to reduce the number of traffic accidents along intersections.

“We have very few existing rotundas nowadays because of the emergence of modern signalized intersections. We hope that by this portable rotunda, we can bring back to the mind of the people that rotundas are the simplest but one of the best ways to reduce accidents,” MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino said.

Tolentino said the MMDA’s portable rotunda could be easily detached and assembled in areas where it is most needed.

The portable roundabout that also serves as a plant box, is equipped with solar-powered lights. Aside from the EDSA-Ayala intersection, the MMDA also intends to install similar roundabouts along the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Road and at the Roxas Boulevard.

Tolentino said a roundabout forces the driver to adjust his speed, scan for openings and negotiate the merge, thereby increasing his awareness of the road.

“No driver would blindly charge at a roundabout at full speed,” he said.

Tolentino cites a study made in the United States in 2011 where it was reported that incidents of traffic accidents were reduced by 80 percent after traffic signals and stop signs were replaced by roundabouts in 23 accident-prone intersections.

“Installing roundabouts in place of traffic signals reduce the likelihood of rear-end crashes and their severity by removing the incentive for drivers to speed up as they approach green lights and by reducing abrupt stops at red lights,” he said.

“Average speed in most roundabouts is half that of conventional intersections, increasing safety for surrounding pedestrians,” Tolentino added.