The secretary general of the General Alliance of Workers Association (GAWA) acknowledged that the Bacolod Traffic Authority Office (BTAO) plays a crucial role in managing the city’s traffic and transportation operations, a press release from the labor group said.
Wennie Sancho said upgrading it into a full-fledged department would enhance its effectiveness in addressing the traffic congestion problems of Bacolod City.
As a full department that would be called the Bacolod Traffic and Transportation Management Department (BTTMD) as proposed, it will have more control over its budget, personnel and decision-making process. It will have more funding allowing BTTMD to invest in modern traffic management systems, infrastructure and personnel training, he said.
GAWA is endorsing this policy initiative for the good of the commuters and to lessen, if not resolve the perennial problem of traffic congestion, Sancho said.
Traffic congestion has a far-reaching consequences that affects various aspects of society. Commuters will spend more time on the road, leading to frustration, stress, blood pressure, anxiety and decreased overall wellbeing, he said.
In terms of economic burden, commuters incur additional cost due to fuel consumption. It can cause delays in the delivery of essential goods, such as food, medicines and emergency services. Business will suffer due to decreased economic efficiency. There will be a delay in economic activities because of traffic congestion. Students will be late in schools and workers will be late for their work, reducing productivity, he added in his statement.
Sancho stressed that it is about time that traffic and transportation should be consolidated into one department to address the perennial issues and concerns in transportation which is a form of social services imbued with public interests.
On the other hand, the appointment of a “traffic czar” is very crucial to the success in the operation of the BTTMD. An effective “traffic czar” in Bacolod City must have an extensive knowledge of the complex transportation system, traffic engineering and urban planning. He must possess a combination of skills, experience, personal qualities and a strong leadership with the ability to inspire and motivate teams of traffic enforcers, engineers and other stakeholders, he said.
He also must have the ability to make informed decisions, timely and decisive decisions to address traffic related issues. He must be deserving and qualified to implement an effective traffic management system to improve traffic flow and enhance the overall quality of life for the people of Bacolod City, Sancho’s statement added.*
