LTFRB directs offices to chart expressway bypasses during floods

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has instructed its regional offices to identify and chart alternative routes for major expressways, a measure designed to reduce traffic bottlenecks when flooding or congestion occurs on key corridors.

The directive comes after commuters experienced significant delays on portions of the Northern Luzon Expressway (NLEx) during recent weather events that caused both flooding and traffic buildup. The LTFRB determined that having pre-planned alternate routes would enable faster response and more efficient traffic management during such incidents.

Under the order, regional LTFRB offices are tasked with coordinating with local government units and other relevant agencies to identify suitable bypass routes. These alternative pathways would be utilized to redirect vehicular traffic away from affected expressway sections, allowing emergency services better access and reducing strain on congested areas.

The strategy reflects the regulatory board's effort to improve the country's transportation system resilience amid increasingly unpredictable weather patterns and urban congestion challenges. By establishing these contingency routes ahead of emergencies, authorities hope to minimize disruption to commuters and commerce.