THE City Government of Bacolod has asked the contractor of the ongoing drainage project along Araneta Street to explain for its alleged failure in putting up an early warning device to prevent any untoward incident.
This, after a motorcycle and a taxi fell on the hole of the drainage on May 17 where the area allegedly had no early warning device.
City Administrator Atty. Pacifico Maghari III said he sent a letter Thursday, May 18, to Alta contractor to explain the incident.
He said the letter was also sent to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
“It’s involved in the safety of the public at the same time the traffic so they need to explain why this incident happened. They should have an early warning device in the area to prevent accidents,” he added.
Maghari noted that he already tasked the city’s coordinators to communicate with the project engineer as well as those in-charge of the project for further investigation.
“We are going to take this matter seriously,” Maghari said.
He said the contractor should put the safety signages and barriers in the area.
“If they fail to put these safety materials, the contractor should face its liability to the complainants,” he added.
Maghari said he was informed that one of the complainants is planning to file a case against the contractor of the project.
He said the Bacolod Traffic Authority Office (BTAO) was also tasked to submit a weekly report to determine the safety measures installed by the contractors in various areas in Bacolod.
“We will monitor the daily works of the contractors because the ongoing drainage projects also affect the traffic situation,” he added.*