DOTr Acknowledges Pampanga Congressman's Crucial Support for Railway Project
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has publicly expressed its appreciation to Pampanga First District Representative Carmelo "Pogi" Lazatin, Jr. for his steadfast support of the North-South Commuter Railway Extension (NSCR-Ex) project located within the Clark Freeport zone. This acknowledgment comes alongside the announcement of significant construction advancements that mark pivotal steps forward for this major infrastructure initiative.
Major Construction Milestones Announced for Clark Segment
In a recent statement, the transportation agency revealed two critical developments achieved on Monday. Firstly, the installation of the first main support beam or girder for the NSCR-Ex Clark Segment, specifically under Contract Package N-04, has been successfully completed. Concurrently, the rail welding process has officially commenced at the Mabalacat Depot, which falls under Contract Package NS-01.
DOTr officials have classified these achievements as substantial milestones in the broader construction timeline of the expansive railway system. They signify tangible progress that brings the project closer to its operational phase.
Secretary Lopez Highlights Public Visibility and Local Government Partnership
DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez elaborated on the importance of these developments. He emphasized that the installation of the initial girder holds particular significance for the general public, as it allows citizens to begin visually observing the placement of massive concrete girders along that specific segment of the NSCR. Furthermore, the rail welding ceremony symbolizes that contractors are now prepared to proceed with installing and connecting the permanent rails across the entire project site.
Secretary Lopez took the opportunity to underscore the indispensable role played by local government units (LGUs) in facilitating project completion. He specifically credited their assistance in resolving complex issues such as right-of-way clearance.
"I would like to extend my gratitude and respect to Cong. Lazatin, Jr. When we're working with LGUs, project completion is faster. The LGU, the congressmen, the mayors, they are always indispensable partners of the national government," Lopez stated. He added, "This is not simply for DOTr; this is not simply for our Cabalens. But this is for the entire Filipino people."
Project Scope and Local Coordination Efforts
The NSCR-Ex Contract Package N-04 encompasses a comprehensive scope of work, including:
- Construction and civil engineering for approximately 6.5 kilometers of railway track structure.
- Development of an underground station at Clark International Airport (CRK).
- Building of an elevated viaduct and bridges.
- Creation of an underground tunnel leading to the CRK Station.
- Establishment of at-grade access to the NSCR depot.
In response, Rep. Carmelo Lazatin, Jr. affirmed that the local government is maintaining close collaboration with the DOTr. The lawmaker detailed ongoing efforts, stating they are actively coordinating with affected communities and working to secure the necessary right-of-way within the jurisdiction of Angeles City, Pampanga.
Anticipated Benefits Upon Operationalization
Once fully operational, the Department of Transportation projects that the NSCR-Ex will deliver multiple transformative benefits to the public, including:
- Significant reduction of traffic congestion in the region.
- Lowered transportation costs for commuters.
- Provision of a safer and more comfortable daily commute for Filipino workers and their families.
These advancements underscore the project's role as a critical component of the nation's infrastructure development and economic growth strategy.
