LRT-2 remains inoperative

The Light Rail Transit Authority appealed for understanding as its LRT-2 line failed to resume commercial operation Monday.

LRTA administrator Reynaldo Berroya said management was not able to complete the test runs and safety checks of the telecommunication system.

He stressed that the safety of the passengers is paramount in the delivery of mass rail transit service.

“We cannot compromise the safety of everyone so we need to thoroughly check the integrity and stability of LRT 2 structures and equipment before we resume operations,” Berroya said.

LRTA said it will resume LRT-2 operations, partially from Cubao, Quezon City to Recto in Manila, once the signalling, telecommunications and power supply systems and the trains are cleared and in normal condition.

Power transformers between the Katipunan and Anonas stations exploded Thursday, forcing service cancellation that may last for nine months—at least in three stations.

On Monday, 30 buses and 20 modernized public utility vehicles will be deployed from 5 a.m. to 10:30 p.m at Santolan station to ferry affected passengers to Cubao and back.

Fare is between P12 and P15, the same as what passengers pay for LRT-2.

Free rides are also available from Santolan to Cubao and vice versa from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. courtesy of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.

Ride-hailing app Angkas also offered free shuttle service.

“We are working on a long term plan to station bikers around the affected area with corresponding promos. In the meantime, we will be deploying a free shuttle service in the affected LRT-2 stations for the next few days,” said George Royeca, head of regulatory and public affairs of Angkas. “We wish to continuously work with the Department of Transportation and are committed to provide solutions to our traffic woes.”