Strict Truck Ban Eyed In Zambo

A typical traffic in Zamboanga City. (Zamboanga Journal)

ZAMBOANGA CITY (Zamboanga Journal / 01 Feb) Vice Mayor Maria Isabel Climaco has ordered Wednesday the strict implemenation of the truck ban in Zamboanga City following mounting complaints from motorists and citizens.

Climaco called on the Zamboanga City Police Office and the Land Transporation Office to strictly implement the ordinance banning cargo trucks to travel from certain hours of the day to decongest the heavy traffic on the road.

Under the Revised Traffic Code, cargo trucks are not allowed to pass through major roads in downtown Zamboanga during rush hours. No cargo truck of more than 5 gross tons are allowed in Climaco Avenue, Gov. Lim Avenue, Tomas Claudio Street and Mayor N. Valderoza and P. Lorenzo Streets up to its junction with the road fronting the main gate of Fort Pilar from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

No cargo trucks of any capacity shall be allowed to pass through the Normal Road from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. during school days, according to the local traffic code.

In a letter to the LTO and the Zambaonga City Police Traffic Division, Climaco said the traffic problems are mounting because of the presence of cargo trucks in

major roads in downtown area during rush hour and this was also aggravated by the increasing number of private and public transportation, including passenger trycycles.

"Law enforcers should strictly enforce the law to minimize traffic congestion in the streets," she said.

Climaco also appealed to the LTO to intensify its campaign dubbed as “Operation Silaw" to ensure safety of pedestrians and motorists alike, particularly at night time.

The campaign prohibits vehicles on the road without proper lights installed.

She stressed that the proper installation of the necessary or required lighting facilities in both public and private vehicles will ensure the safety and protection of both pedestrians and motorists.