MMDA considers use of EDSA bus lanes for faster COVID19 vaccine transport
MANILA - Authorities are considering the use of EDSA bus lanes in transporting COVID-19 vaccines for a more "seamless" delivery of the critical vials, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chief Benhur Abalos said Saturday.
In a public press briefing, Abalos said they are considering using EDSA's innermost lanes, which are exclusive for buses and emergency vehicles, or the lanes beside them to make transport faster. Speedy transport is crucial in ensuring quality of the vaccines, which require consistent cold temperatures.
Police and MMDA enforcers who will escort the vans are "ready," according to Abalos. Towing and emergency vehicles will also be on standby. Abalos said the route for the Sinovac vaccine transport has been set but did not give details. He reminded motorists to steer clear in case they see the vaccine convoy. The government on Sunday, February 28, is set to receive 600,000 doses of the Coronavac COVID-19 vaccines from Chinese company Sinovac, the first batch to arrive in the country and are allocated for soldiers and health workers.