Zimbabwe Senate Demands Crackdown on Overloaded Trucks

• Zimbabwe Senate demands crackdown on overloaded trucks, citing road damage
• Government awards contracts for new weighbridges to strengthen enforcement
• Transport Minister Felix Mhona emphasizes need for mining companies to shift freight to rail
• Long-term strategy aims to reduce burden on roads by mandating rail transport for bulk cargo
• Private sector investment sought to enhance rail freight capacity

The Zimbabwe Senate has raised concerns about the deteriorating state of the country's road network, which they attribute to overloaded vehicles. Lawmakers pointed out that heavy mining trucks are largely responsible for the premature deterioration of newly rehabilitated roads. Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona acknowledged the issue and revealed that the government had awarded contracts for new weighbridges to strengthen enforcement.

Mhona emphasized the need for mining companies to shift freight to rail, citing underutilized railway infrastructure and the negative impact of overloaded trucks on road lifespan. He also hinted at deploying Vehicle Inspectorate Department officers on a 24-hour shift system to ensure weighbridges and checkpoints remain operational around the clock.

The government's long-term strategy is to reduce the burden on roads by requiring mining companies to transport bulk cargo by rail. Transport Minister Felix Mhona stated that the ideal solution is to mandate trucks, especially those from mining companies, to transport goods through the railway line. This move aims to lessen the burden on roads and strengthen the country's rail freight capacity.

To achieve this goal, the government is seeking private sector investment to enhance the rail network. Mhona invited the private sector to participate in making sure that there are sufficient rolling stocks on the railway line for efficient transportation of goods.

Senators Solani Moyo and Jerry Gotora expressed concerns about the state of roads despite ongoing maintenance. Gotora witnessed overloaded trucks transporting lithium along a recently reconstructed road, raising questions about the need for weighbridges on these routes. He suspected that some trucks were carrying more than their declared 30-tonne capacity.

The senators' concerns highlight the urgent need for effective enforcement and regulation to prevent overloading and ensure safe transportation practices.

Lawyers advising mining companies in Zimbabwe should be aware of the government's plan to mandate rail transport for bulk cargo, which may impact existing transportation contracts and compliance with overloading regulations.

Source: Original reporting via The Zimbabwean