NLEX weighing DOTr call to waive toll fees amid congestion

NLEX Corp., the operator of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), on Friday said it “acknowledges” the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) call for the toll road company to waive fees in affected areas amid the heavy traffic due to the Marilao Interchange Bridge accident.

In a press statement, NLEX Corp. said it “remains fully committed to minimizing inconvenience to motorists and ensuring the swift restoration of normal traffic flow along the section of NLEX affected by the Marilao incident.”

The toll operator issued the statement after Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon “demanded” NLEX to waive toll at affected areas while it repairs the bridge in question. 

“NLEX Corp. acknowledges DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon’s statement that urges NLEX to consider some toll relief at the Marilao Segment of the expressway where the bridge hit incident occurred last 19 March, which has resulted in heavy traffic,” the company said.

“We understand the concerns of the DOTr and our stakeholders about the slower travel along Marilao because of the incident and we have undertaken immediate measures to alleviate congestion,” it added.

GMA News Online reached out to Dizon for his comment. The article will be updated once a response has been received.

On Wednesday, NLEX Corp. announced the temporary closure of two northbound lanes at Marilao Interchange Bridge due to a road crash.

On Thursday, the toll road operator said slow-moving traffic is expected as the repair of the Marilao Interchange Bridge may take two to three weeks after the accident.

“Last night, we opened an additional lane, increasing the usable lanes to three. Furthermore, a zipper lane will be opened in the southbound direction when conditions allow,” NLEX Corp. said.

“These measures resulted and will result in the progressive improvement of traffic flow in the area,” it added.

The company said it expects to reopen all four affected lanes by the end of March, “barring any unforeseen circumstances.”

“NLEX Corp. remains committed to providing safe, efficient, and reliable expressway services. We will continue to update the public on further developments and additional measures to ease traffic flow,” it said.—LDF, GMA Integrated News