Axle load management

Throughout country, major roads and highways are marred by potholes and cracks

Throughout the country, major roads and highways are marred by potholes and cracks. A key factor contributing to the deteriorating condition of roads is the frequent passage of overloaded vehicles imposing a substantial burden and causing damages. These overloaded vehicles also pose hazards to commuters and other vehicles. To tackle this problem, Punjab Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman has instructed the transport department to enhance the effectiveness of the axle load management system in the province.

According to the chief secretary, axle load management is effectively in place on 1,700 kilometres of Punjab’s highways, with permanent weigh stations at nine locations to inspect freight vehicles. Legal actions are being taken against overloaded vehicles. Other provincial governments should adopt similar measures given the history of numerous fatal accidents caused by overloaded vehicles. The challenges posed by heavy loads extend to the manoeuvrability of vehicles creating difficulties for drivers in navigating turns and obstacles. This diminished agility significantly heightens the risk of accidents, particularly in congested or complex traffic situations. Additionally, heavy-load vehicles experience an increased braking distance, complicating their ability to stop promptly in emergencies. This not only jeopardises the safety of the vehicle’s occupants but also poses a risk to other road users.

Beyond the safety concerns, heavy-load vehicles contribute to traffic congestion and exhibit lower fuel efficiency, emitting more pollutants that contribute to environmental degradation. This environmental impact is exacerbated when vehicles surpass their designated weight limits. Besides enforcing weight limits and levying fines, educating transporters and truck drivers is pivotal for ensuring road safety and improving overall transportation efficiency. These measures should be implemented at both federal and provincial levels as they can contribute to creating a safer and more sustainable transport infrastructure in the country.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11^th, 2024.

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