SJDM seeks MRT-7 route realignment due to traffic concerns

The City of San Jose del Monte (SJDM) in Bulacan is seeking to realign the Metro Rail Transit Line 7's (MRT-7) route after consultations with stakeholders raised concerns about traffic congestion and service disruptions.

Mayor Arthur Robes stated that the city government has consolidated various sentiments from constituents regarding construction-related issues such as potential traffic jams, decline in living quality, and disruption of essential services.

Robes said the city has proposed three options for relocating the MRT-7 station to address these concerns while ensuring public welfare, including diverting the Quirino highway route due to its significance as a key thoroughfare.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista acknowledged that stakeholders are requesting a rerouting of the railway path due to building owners' objections and delays in right-of-way issues.

The SJDM government is not involved in negotiations regarding right-of-way issues affecting the project but aims to work with the Department of Transportation and San Miguel Corporation (SMC) to expedite its completion, with only 12 stations expected to be operational by early 2025.