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On SCTEX and Driving Rains
SCTEX Feature Story
Author: Business World
Posted: July 27, 2010 | Category: SCTEX
Not to be caught flat-footed on account of its pro-active policy, the state-run Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) greeted the rainy season fully prepared for any eventuality at its flagship project Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX).
“The preemptive moves which included pavement enhancement works and clearing of the drainage systems have been undertaken weeks before the onset of the rains,” said SCTEX spokesman and BCDA program manager for operational support services BGen. Robert Gervacio (Ret).
Even as the country was still sweltering under the dry spell of the El Nino weather phenomenon, the BCDA has already instructed the SCTEX service provider Tollways Management Corp. (TMC) to gear up for La Nina.
“The SCTEX is definitely one of the safest tollways in the Philippines and the BCDA is fully committed to keep it that way,” Gervacio said. “But we also urge our motorists to do their part by strictly following the speed limits within the tollway which is 100 kph and driving defensively and safely all the time.”
Tollways Management Corporation (TMC) division chief for the SCTEX Charlie Espanola said the slopes of Jalung Cut in Porac, Pampanga, one of the most scenic spots of the 93.7-kilometer tollway, was also strengthened to ward off soil erosion that could pose risks to motorists.
“We have optimized our public safety measures, including placement of all emergency assistance and rescue teams on alert mode particularly during heavy downpour and typhoons,” Espanola said.
Both Gervacio and Espanola underscored however, the significance of motorists strictly observing precautions when driving under adverse conditions.
The two officials said motorists should take extra precautions when driving through the rains which drastically reduce visibility on the road.
“We can never underestimate the importance of having our windshield wipers and headlights in good working condition before setting off on a journey with unpredictable weather,” Gervacio stressed.
“If visibility turns also nil, it would be wise to gradually slow down preparatory to parking on the shoulder while waiting for the atmosphere to clear up,” he added.
While parked, the hazard lamps should be switched on as a warning sign to other motorists.
The SCTEX officials also reminded the motorists to double their distance from other vehicles when driving on wet pavement which significantly reduces tire grip or traction.
Here are other friendly reminders from the SCTEX:
· Keep enough distance from the vehicles in front and behind you. This will increase their ability to see and plan ahead of time.
· If the steering wheel becomes unresponsive, it probably means that the water is preventing the tires from gripping the road. Ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually.
· The rain and spray from vehicles may make it difficult to see and be seen. Be extra cautious and make sure that your wipers are functioning.
Designed to conform with global safety standards, the SCTEX handles an average daily traffic of some 30,000 vehicles.
The tollway also has an ample supply of reflectorized traffic cones, road signs, plastic jersey barriers, and lane closure signs. Through these portable equipment, cat’s eyes and reflectorized road signs, motorists are able to avoid hazards, even at night, and are protected from on-going retrieval operations whenever there are incidents on the expressway. Complementing these safety features is the strict implementation of Republic Act No. 8750, the Seatbelt Use Act of 1999.
For the safety and convenience of motorists, security teams are strategically deployed along the tollway to ensure that help is just 20 minutes away at any point along the SCTEX. Motorists needing roadside assistance can call the following SCTEX hotlines (0920) 96-SCTEX (72839), (045) 865-2030, (02) 362-9997 and (02) 362-2246.
The BCDA awarded recently to the Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC) the right to enter into a contract to lease, manage, operate and maintain the SCTEX which interconnects Central Luzon’s three major economic zones – the Clark Freeport Zone, the Subic Bay Freeport Zone and the Central Techno Park in Tarlac.
