MMDA launches Internet-based traffic navigation system

Commuters and motorists may now get real-time traffic updates from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) with its new Internet-based traffic navigator system. MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino said the system can help motorists and public utility drivers make informed decisions on what routes to take. "They can now avoid heavy-traffic areas, which will be a great help for us to decongest the roads," Tolentino said in a news release posted on the MMDA website. Initially, the system will cover:

• Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA) from Balintawak to Mall of Asia
• C-5 road (from Market!Market! to Libis flyover)
• South Luzon Expressway (from Nichols to Alabang Exit)
• Roxas Boulevard (from Coastal Road to Anda Circle)
• Quezon Avenue (from Philcoa to Mayon Street)
• España Avenue (from Welcome Rotunda to Lerma).

"We are adding Ortigas Avenue, Commonwealth Avenue, and Marcos Highway soon, and possibly the city streets, in coordination with the local government units, in the near future," Tolentino said. According to the MMDA, the "Navigator" can be accessed through the MMDA website www.mmda.gov.ph or through TV5'swww.interaksyon.com. The Metro Manila Traffic Navigator project was developed through a public-private partnership between the MMDA and TV5. Under the setup, the MMDA will have a six-member Traffic Navigator Team on duty 24/7 at the agency's Metrobase. It will operate and maintain the digitized traffic information database. CCTV setup The system relies on the MMDA's closed circuit televisions (CCTVs) to get the traffic situation in an area. It will get support from reports sent in by traffic enforcers in the field, especially in areas where there are no surveillance cameras. Tolentino said that the Navigator does not require Global Positioning System (GPS) for accurate data as users only need an Internet connection to access it. He added the Traffic Navigator will be useful for the public to plan their trips accordingly and to save fuel and time. — TJD, GMA News