ILOILO City – The traffic realignment at the defective Ungka Flyover in Barangay Ungka II, Pavia, Iloilo commenced on Monday morning, October 28.
Starting at 6 a.m., the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 6, in collaboration with the Iloilo City Traffic Management Unit (ICTMU) and Pavia Traffic Management Office (PTMO), began using the right portion of the flyover for those heading towards Pavia.
This adjustment allows for the repair of the flyover’s superstructure, particularly the asphalt overlay at piers 4, 5, and 6, and the installation of geofoam.
Prior to the realignment, two inner lanes were utilized by motorists with window times set from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
A temporary traffic scheme on the Ungka Flyover is being enforced effective Monday, October 28.
For vehicles from Iloilo City going to Pavia – stay on the right lane of the Ungka flyover and continue straight to Pavia.
For vehicles from Pavia going to Iloilo City – at the approach of the Ungla Flyover, turn left and use the single lane designated for traffic from Pavia to Iloilo City; upon reaching the other side, turn right to return to your original lane.
DPWH-6 director, Engineer Sanny Boy Oropel, reported that the traffic transition has been smooth with no significant queuing at the flyover’s approaches.
Oropel mentioned plans to discuss the first day’s feedback with ICTMU head retired Police Colonel Uldarico Garbanzos and PTMO head retired Police Major Dante Dumaguing to consider any necessary adjustments.
“If improvements are needed, then we will make them. We are currently assessing what actions are needed to further smooth the flow of traffic in the area,” Oropel told Panay News.
Oropel expressed confidence that any required changes would be minor, such as adjusting pedestrian lanes and loading / unloading areas near the GT Mall and the transport terminal across Christ the King Memorial Park on the Pavia side, adding a U-turn slot in front of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), and installing reflectorized devices.
He affirmed that the utilization of the flyover’s right lanes for those heading towards Pavia is now permanent.
Oropel appealed for the cooperation and understanding of motorists and the riding public, who might experience inconveniences due to the traffic realignment. He requested that drivers follow queuing guidelines and avoid overtaking to prevent accidents, which could further disrupt traffic.
“A little patience and understanding of the inconveniences we are causing today will lead to better traffic conditions tomorrow,” said Oropel.
The official stressed that the realignment is temporary, aiming for the flyover to be fully operational by December 25./PN
