DOTr Plans to Double Creek Capacity Along Old Antipolo Street
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has announced plans to double the capacity of a creek along Old Antipolo street as part of flood control measures near the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) stations. This crucial operation aims to prevent flooding in the vicinity of the Blumentritt and Solis stations in Manila.
During a joint clearing operation on Monday, officials including Manila Mayor Isko Moreno and Transport Secretary Vince Dizon inspected the shallow creek that currently limits floodwater drainage. The limited capacity poses risks, especially during heavy rains, prompting immediate action to enhance flood resilience around the NSCR stations.
Flood Control Measures to Protect Manila Communities
“Engineers from Indonesia and Japan proposed to increase the creek’s capacity to improve the flood control in Blumentritt, Sta. Cruz, and Tondo areas,” local leaders shared in Filipino. This international collaboration underscores the urgency and technical approach to addressing flooding in these neighborhoods.
Secretary Dizon emphasized the importance of flood control, stating, “We can not neglect flood control, so we are going to double the capacity of the creek.” The commitment highlights the government’s proactive stance in safeguarding residents and infrastructure from flood damage.
Infrastructure Upgrades: Doubling Box Culverts
In addition to expanding the creek itself, officials reported plans to double the number of box culverts beneath Old Antipolo street. Box culverts are essential structures that enable water to flow underneath roadways during floods, thus reducing water accumulation on streets and minimizing flood impact.
NSCR Construction Progress and Future Benefits
After facing a two-year delay due to right-of-way challenges, the NSCR construction is now back on track with a target completion date set for 2032. Community members noted that the revised plan will no longer require the demolition of houses or other structures, alleviating concerns among affected residents.
Once fully operational, the NSCR promises to revolutionize travel by cutting the journey from Manila to Clark Airport to just 45 minutes. This will significantly enhance transportation efficiency and connectivity for commuters and travelers alike.
For more news and updates on North-South Commuter Railway, visit Filipinokami.com.
