Cabanlas: Escalators to ease PWDs, seniors’ use of overpass

COUNCILOR Edgar S. Cabanlas believes that the best way to make overpasses convenient and user-friendly for senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and even pregnant women is by installing escalators.

This was pointed out by the majority floor leader in response to the special report of Councilor Yevona Yacine Emano who called for the removal of pedestrian crossings along national highways, citing Section 162(a) of the city’s traffic code, which prohibit any person from crossing within 50 linear meters from both sides of a pedestrian overpass.

According to the lady councilor, road accidents that commonly involve pedestrians and vehicles may be prevented if traffic rules are enforced strictly.

Supporting Emano, Councilor George Goking cited a ‘sad experience’ using the overpass linking Gaisano and Centrio Malls.

“It is a challenge going up and dangerous going down,” Goking said.

“We will request the establishment controlling the area where the overpass is constructed to provide escalator,” Cabanlas suggested.

Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez, who presided over the 105th regular session of the 20th Council, referred the matter to the Committee on Public Works of Councilor Cabanlas and the Committee on Public Utilities chaired by Councilor Romeo Calizo.