[sustran] location of light rail transit stations

[rverzola]

Metro Manila today is the site of several major light rail transit
(LRT) constructions.

Of the the biggest one is the EDSA-LRT, EDSA referring to the major
circumferential highway around the metropolis. This particular project
is a private one: the government allowed it to build along the highway
itself; in exchange, they will be allowed to set up station malls
which they will rent out to various businesses, in addition to the
usual income from fares. The construction expenses will be borne by
the private consortium undertaking the project.

There have been no public announcement regarding the exact locations
of the LRT stations/malls, even as the construction started and went
full blast. When I personally checked the locations, I was appalled
that they were in several instances located a considerable distance
(600 meters or so) away from major road arteries that cross their
path. In these cases, it seems that the locations were chosen not on
transport criteria but on "real estate/commercial site"
considerations. I live on one of these arterial roads, where to get to
the station, one has to walk more than half a kilometer. Another issue
is that the consortium seems to be building a "Berlin Wall" underneath
the LRT elevated rails. I can think of no other reason than to prevent
pedestrial crossing at major points, to channel pedestrian traffic
into their stations/malls. It is a clear case of public vs. private
interest in conflict.

I am interested in knowing if similar problemmatic cases have occured
elsewhere in the past, and would like to compare notes and approaches
to the issue. Since the construction is going on, time is short as the
issue may become moot and academic soon.

Obet Verzola
Member, Sustainable Transport Forum
Manila