Conclusion
The Harbor Link project is integral to the North Luzon Spine network, which seeks to decongest Metro Manila, particularly Edsa, C-5, as well as Metro Manila’s nearby provinces.
Segment 10, which completes the North Luzon Expressway (Nlex) Harbor Link, is scheduled to be finished by the end of the year.
The expressway used the alignment of the Philippine National Railways (PNR) to traverse Karuhatan in Valenzuela City, Pascual Avenue in Malabon City and C-3 in Caloocan. It was built above the PNR rail tracks in some portions, and at times, alongside the tracks. Such an ingenious solution spared the project from right-of-way problems and the displacement of residents near the area.
Travel time from the Manila Port Area heading to the Nlex will only be about 10 minutes. No truck ban will be imposed on the expressway.
The P10.5-billion Harbor Link project also includes Segment 9, which was completed last year and became operational in March 2015; and Segment 8.2, a 7.5-kilometer, four-lane expressway that will run from Mindanao Avenue to Republic Avenue.
Once Segment 10 is operational, trucks would prefer to pass there because they could do a turnaround for the whole 24 hours.
Last year close to 78 million metric tons of cargo were delivered from the Manila North Harbor to other parts of North and Central Luzon. This volume is expected to increase dramatically once Segment 10 is operational.
Motorists, who will be using Segment 10, will enjoy the seamless, safe and speedy travel experience like that of those plying the Nlex.
Alongside the Harbor Link Project, MPIC has a set of pipeline toll road projects worth P153 billion, among them, the Cavite-Laguna Expressway, the Nlex-South Luzon Expressway Connector Road, expansion of Nlex and Cavite Expressway, and the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway.
Use water wisely this summer
Now that summer is here—the heat index is forecast to range from 37.9 to 40 degrees Celsius in Metro Manila—water consumption will certainly increase in both homes and commercial establishments.
The apprehension that increased water usage could lead to a water shortage, however, is unfounded. The East Zone water concessionaire, Manila Water recently gave assurances that there is enough water supply for the entire summer.
The water firm said they do not see major issues with supply or the threat of shortage of water this summer. The projected level in Angat Dam this month is about 194 meters (above sea level), which is higher compared to the same period last year, which was at 191.6 m.
But this assurance should make us even more careful in how we use water, especially after the company said the outlook might still change if the summer becomes longer or when the onset of the rainy season will be late.
It also noted that people should use water wisely and responsibly. It is still important to remind ourselves of these tips:
1) Always make sure that taps/faucets are tightly closed.
2) Check for leaks regularly and have them repaired immediately.
3) When washing by hand, soak heavily soiled clothes first to remove dirt easily. Use a basin or washtub with the right amount of water. Don’t let the basin overflow under a running tap.
4) When using the washing machine, wash with a full load only every other day. Use only the necessary amount of detergents so that less rinsing is required.
5) When bathing, use a pail and dipper instead of the shower.
6) Water your plants, garden or lawn early in the morning, late in the afternoon or during the cool part of the day.
7) When washing your car, use a pail, not a water hose, and use a cotton rag instead of a sponge.
These are just some of the many reminders on responsible use of water that apply to all—because we all need water to survive.
E-mail: ernhil@yahoo.com.