Eyeing traffic
As the Mambaling underpass opened last Saturday, there were a lot of mixed reactions. A lot of people said it didn’t help ease traffic while many also praised the project. During the construction, the traffic enforcement of the city and the Department of Public Works and Highways received so many complaints. Whatever the reaction, we have to face the truth that it is finally there for everybody to use. Of course, there are changes to the already existing scheme. It would take time before everyone becomes accustomed to it. Things like these don’t come in a jiffy, but we have to understand that everyone should do their share.
True enough, what will we do with a million-peso project if we can’t even follow simple rules and regulations? Let’s say the underpass is being utilized but then the drivers in the intersection above it won’t obey rules and regulations, then it is basically useless in the first place. At many times I have encountered irate drivers who won’t give way, or stop at the intersection, or follow the correct lane. We are driving with people who don’t know the essence of the law and only think about their own interests.
I’m sure there are a lot of projects to follow that are aimed at easing traffic now with the “Build, build, build” program of the administration. Just like the Mambaling underpass, their construction will take time and be subject to the constriction of the usual traffic flow. We should be ready for everything before we even start complaining. However, I’d like to think that the solution to curbing traffic is more than the projects to be implemented. We need to reduce the volume of vehicles on the road, have a good transport system, and implement discipline on the part of the drivers.
If only there is a transport system that is fast, efficient, and worth the money, I’m sure a lot of people would ditch their cars. I would be one of them too, but then again this is all wishful thinking. No matter how many countries we eye as models for our current traffic problem, we can’t reach a concrete solution because not everyone is willing to do so.
I have dreams for my own country to be changed, but maybe not today. Someday it will understand the value of discipline and how it is the key to making all things in order.
Only then will we see many good things happen in our motherland. Traffic may be a small problem from hindsight, but it has a big impact on society. Heck, it is even a reflection of who we are as a people. We should get our act together and be mature individuals when it comes to dealing with the rules of the road.
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