The Marikina City government has temporarily suspended its car-free Sunday program, raising immediate concerns among residents and environmental advocates. The suspension took effect this week, with officials pointing to severe traffic congestion on alternate roads as the primary reason.
In a statement, the city's traffic management office explained that while the initiative aimed to promote walking, cycling, and cleaner air, it inadvertently caused gridlock on surrounding streets as motorists sought detours. "The program's benefits were outweighed by the inconvenience to commuters and residents," a spokesperson said.
Local environmental groups expressed disappointment, urging the city to refine the initiative rather than scrap it. Meanwhile, business owners along the car-free route reported mixed reactions, with some welcoming the return of vehicle access while others hoped for a more balanced approach.
The suspension will remain in effect until city engineers complete a traffic study and propose adjustments. No definite date has been set for the program's resumption.