DOTr Agrees to Postpone Tandang Sora Interchange, Flyover Closure by One Week

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has acceded to the request of Congress and the local city council of Quezon City to postpone the closure of the Tandang Sora interchange and flyover by one week. 

"While we want the construction of the MRT-7 to proceed as fast as possible, the DOTr also understands that major adjustments have to be made by residents, commuters and motorists who will be affected by the said closure," the agency said in a statement. "We take this postponement as a period to strengthen public awareness and cooperation for the project, as this would give individuals and agencies ample time to prepare and manage the traffic situation in the area."

According to the DOTr, San Miguel Corporation, its private partner for the MRT-7 project, has also agreed to the one-week postponement.

"We appeal for understanding and cooperation from the public as we make all means possible to deliver these projects efficiently," the DOTr added.

With the postponement, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has now set the new date and time of the Tandang Sora interchange and flyover's closure to 11 PM of March 2.

"This morning, barangay leaders have started informing the residents of the closure," said MMDA General Manager Jojo Garcia in a news briefing held today, February 21, at the MMDA headquarters.

Garcia said the MMDA was also given until Sunday, February 24, to remove obstructions, including illegally-parked vehicles and illegal vendors, on Luzon Avenue, Visayas Avenue, Congressional Avenue, and other identified alternate roads.

"I have instructed the Task Force Special Operations to clear all obstructions in the vicinity of Tandang Sora. Parking, terminals, and vending will be prohibited to maximize the roads," said Garcia.