Government threatens to impound trucks found to be operating above load limit

Truck operators have received a warning from the Ministry of Public Works that their trucks will be impounded if they continue to operate above the approved 15-tonne load limit.

The Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill has explained that a number overladen heavy-duty trucks are traversing the country’s roadways and causing significant damage to the road networks.

Mr. Edghill, issued the warning at a meeting with contractors currently executing projects in Region 4.

In a release, the Works Ministry said the meeting raised issues about damage occurring to infrastructure especially by trucks that are engaged in other projects.

“From today, I will start impounding ALL trucks which are above the authorised weight limit. Whether it is yours or the contractor working for you, I’m telling you this is what is going to happen! And when I say impound, I don’t mean paying fines… the trucks will be clamped for two weeks,” Minister Edghill stated.

He emphasized that rigid enforcement measures will now be implemented to curb the negligent attitude of operators.

The Minister underscored that enforcement, which ought to be the last resort, is now emerging as the only effective alternative since some contractors.

He added that scales will also be placed at more locations across the country, with Lethem set to receive its first set within one month’s time.

“This is to ensure the structural integrity of the bridges we have built along the major road artery does not diminish faster due to overladen heavy-duty trucks carrying aggregate and materials.”

The Minister also announced that similar initiatives will be rolled out in region 3 for operations that occur on the West Bank end at Wales.