DOTr asks NLEX to waive toll in area affected by bridge hit

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Department of Transportation (DOTr) asked the operator of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) to immediately waive the toll in its Marilao northbound segment after another bridge hit that killed a person.

On Wednesday, June 18, an 18-wheeler container truck exceeded the 4.27-meter height limit of the Marilao interchange that caused a beam to fall and hit an oncoming vehicle. The same bridge was hit three months ago also by an 18-wheeler truck.

One person was killed, while others in the Asian utility vehicle, including a two-year-old infant, were injured.

In a press statement, the agency urged NLEX Corporation to suspend fees until all lanes are passable.

The toll operator said all lanes are passable for now but the bridge bound for MacArthur Highway has been temporarily closed.

The DOTr also asked the toll operator to explain what it called “lack of oversight” after a similar incident in March.

On March 19, an 18-wheeler truck hit the same bridge and severely damaged two girders, prompting lane closures for a week. NLEX suspended fees upon the call of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon.

“Humihingi ng pang-unawa ang DOTr sa ating mga motorista at komyuter dahil sa pangyayaring ito. Pinamamadali na ng ahensiya ang pagsasa-ayos ng apektadong imprastruktura upang agarang mapabilis at maayos ang daloy ng trapik sa lugar,” the DOTr said.

[Translation: The DOTr is asking for understanding from our motorists and commuters regarding this incident. The agency is expediting the repair of the affected infrastructure to immediately improve and ease the flow of traffic in the area.]

NewsWatch Plus has reached out to the NLEX about the fee suspension.