LTFRB seeks explanation from NLEX over Marilao Bridge incident
Motorists traversing the North Luzon Expressway are bracing for ‘carmaggedon’ near the Marilao area as workers continue repairs on the Marilao Bridge that was involved in a mishap days ago.
PHOTOGRAPH BY ANALY LABOR for the daily tribune @tribunephl_ana
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has asked the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) Corporation to explain why it should not face penalties after a truck exceeding the allowed vertical clearance entered the toll plaza, leading to an accident at the Marilao Interchange Bridge.
On Wednesday, NLEX Corporation announced the temporary closure of two northbound lanes at the Marilao Interchange Bridge due to the crash.
The truck that hit the bridge exceeded the 4.27-meter vertical clearance limit, causing damage and worsening traffic congestion along the expressway.
NLEX assistant vice president for Traffic Operations Robin Ignacio clarified that NLEX has dedicated teams to measure the height of vehicles to ensure they comply with the vertical clearance of bridges.
However, he said the truck involved in the accident bypassed this process by avoiding the designated truck lane.
Ignacio said repair efforts are underway, with completion now targeted for the end of March instead of the initial April schedule.
Meanwhile, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has urged NLEX Corporation to waive toll fees in affected areas due to the heavy traffic caused by the accident.