New measures seek to curb overloading of trucks

By Willis Oketch

Imported cargo entering Kenya through Mombasa Port should be weighed before being transported on local roads.

Top Government officials said this would end overloading of trucks that damage roads.

A roads stakeholders’ meeting at Serena Beach Hotel in Mombasa was told that non-compliance by trucks was to blame for bad roads.

The meeting was attended by Roads Assistant Minister Wilfred Machage, Permanent Secretary Michael Kamau, Public Works Assistant Minister Lee Kinyanjui, Transport Assistant Minister Harun Mwau, Director General Kenya National Highway Authority Meshack Kidenda and his Kenya Rural Roads Authority counterpart Mwangi Maingi.

A report presented to stakeholders by an inter-ministerial technical committee on axle load control revealed there was selective prosecution of overloading offenders.

Committee Chairman Philomon Kilimo said an inquiry on overloading and impunity in dealing with the vice established that only drivers were prosecuted, while cargo owners and those who allow loading were left out.

"The more we load trucks in excess of the 34 tonnes required by the law, the more we continue damaging our roads which is a threat to smooth trade," said Dr Machage.

Cost of trade

He said road stakeholders have no choice but to draw up policies to ensure the country does not entertain overloaded trucks.

"Axle load control inefficiencies have been cited in most cases as impediments to efficiency in trade and investment in East and Central Africa," said Machage.

The inter-ministerial committee on axle load was formed following a presidential directive aimed at curbing overloading. The committee is supposed to deliberate and recommend review of existing laws.

On Monday, Kilimo said his team had found that unless there is a clear policy to deal with the axle load control, corrupt transporters would continue bribing their way and destroying highways.

Some stakeholders suggested that weighbridges be automated. For offenders, certificate for registration of the vehicles would be cancelled.

"The law identifies three offenders — the driver, the owner and the loader — but many courts have been punishing drivers," said Kilimo.

He said the traffic law and the Kenya Road Act provide for restitution measures for damage to the road.