MMDA To Sue Bike Group BUM For Putting Safety Barriers
BIKERS UNITED MARSHALLS – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced their plans to sue a bike group for trying to ensure the safety of other cyclists.
As Metro Manila transitioned from an Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) to a General Community Quarantine (GCQ), thousands of workers flocked the streets hoping to commute to work.
However, because of the social distancing protocols still in place, commuting to work became harder than before. As such, there was an influx of people opting to bike to work instead.
But, because of the harsh traffic in the Metro, some vehicles use to bike lanes to try to get ahead. This causes problems and major concerns for people biking to work.
With the safety of fellow cyclists in mind, the bike group “Bikers United Marshalls” (BUM) placed temporary barriers to set apart one lane of the busy highway for cyclists. But, this did not sit well with the MMDA.
According to an article from Inquirer, MMDA spokesperson Celine Pialgo said they would fine the group P1,000 each for placing the barriers. Additionally, the spokesperson added that the barriers are “very dangerous” for cyclists.
They cannot just put up bike lane protectors without notifying authorities, especially made from plastic bottles
Also, they are not enough to provide safety for our bikers from speeding vehicles. They are very dangerous, in fact.
Furthermore, she said the MMDA was coordinating with the police for other possible charges to be filed against the BUM for “endangering the lives of others”. Following this, she suggested that cyclists should use sidewalks instead.
However, the biker group fired back with this statement:
We believe we have done our bikers (mostly without protective gear) our humble service. If the MMDA sees otherwise, then we have to be ready for the consequences of the incompetence of our leaders.
What do you think about this? Leave a comment below!
READ ALSO: MMDA Says Filipino Commuters Defy Health Guidelines at Start of GCQ