By Michelle Ducut
Government measures to address heavy traffic along the Rolando Andaya Highway in Camarines Sur are beginning to show positive results, with improved traffic flow reported in key areas.
The Camarines Sur Provincial Police Office (PPO), in coordination with the Provincial Mobile Force Company, Highway Patrol Group (HPG), and other agencies, has implemented a 30-minute interval traffic scheme at Sitio Mauca in Barangay Colacling, Lupi town. The stop-and-go system alternates vehicle flow between southbound and northbound directions, easing congestion.
In Barangay Cabutagan, Lupi, vehicles traveling toward Ragay and Manila are also following the same interval system. Police personnel are stationed to ensure smooth traffic flow and provide security for Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) trucks transporting materials for road rehabilitation.
For travelers seeking alternative routes, light vehicles are directed to take the Sipocot-Camarines Norte or Sta. Elena-Capalonga, Daet, Camarines Norte routes to avoid the most congested sections of the highway.
Police Regional Office-Bicol (PRO-5) Regional Director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon commended the collaborative efforts of government agencies in addressing the traffic issues. The Land Transportation Office in Bicol (LTO-5) has also deployed enforcers and issued travel advisories, reporting light to moderate traffic in Ragay and moderate to heavy congestion in Lupi as of Thursday evening.
The ongoing congestion is primarily caused by uneven roads, road repairs, and counterflowing vehicles. To address these issues, the DPWH has accelerated rehabilitation efforts, including the delivery and installation of steel sheet piles and backfill earth materials. As of Thursday, 58 steel sheet piles, each four meters long, have been delivered and are being installed to improve road conditions.