NLEX Corporation reported the improved traffic situation in its latest road update at 9:15 a.m. on September 6, although water buildup remained in portions of the expressway in San Simon, Pampanga.
Despite the lighter traffic, motorists were still advised to exercise caution as flooding continued to affect specific lanes.
Water buildup remains in San Simon
According to NLEX’s latest update, Lane 3 northbound at Tulaoc in San Simon remained impassable because of water buildup.
The San Simon Interchange, however, remained passable to all types of vehicles.
On the southbound side, Tulaoc and the San Simon Interchange were reported passable to all vehicles.
The Libtong Exit also remained temporarily closed, according to the Sunday morning advisory.
Other major sections, including Balintawak, Valenzuela and Meycauayan, were reported passable to all types of vehicles in the northbound direction.
Traffic situation improves after last week’s massive gridlock
The latest improvement marks a significant change from the extraordinary congestion experienced along NLEX in late August and early September.
Floodwaters caused by intense rains and the overflowing Pampanga River submerged portions of the expressway, particularly around Tulaoc Bridge and San Simon, leaving motorists stranded and causing traffic to stretch for hours.
The situation became serious enough for the Department of Transportation and the Toll Regulatory Board to demand an explanation and technical solutions from NLEX Corporation.
In response to the disruption, NLEX also implemented a toll waiver between Pulilan, Bulacan, and San Fernando, Pampanga, beginning September 2, with the measure intended to remain in effect until normal operations resume.
Government orders stronger response to expressway emergencies
The NLEX crisis has also prompted government agencies to strengthen coordination and public warnings.
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board recently directed its regional offices to coordinate with expressway operators so motorists can receive more timely information about road conditions, emergencies and alternative routes.
The directive also covers coordination with local governments, transport operators and truckers to ensure wider dissemination of information during unexpected road emergencies.
Meanwhile, a recent report noted that the Toll Regulatory Board has called for faster flood warnings, including providing motorists with advance notice before flood-related closures whenever practicable.
Motorists still urged to check conditions before traveling
While Sunday morning traffic was described as light, motorists heading toward Central Luzon should not assume that all sections of NLEX are completely back to normal.
Flood-related restrictions remain in place in parts of San Simon, and conditions can change depending on rainfall and water levels.
For drivers planning to use NLEX, checking the latest road advisory before departure remains important—particularly for those traveling through San Simon, Pampanga, Tulaoc and the Libtong area.
For now, the return of lighter traffic provides welcome relief after last week’s extraordinary congestion—but the remaining floodwater serves as a reminder that the NLEX situation has not yet completely returned to normal.
WWC ONE MEDIA J.M.S
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