Zimbabwe Enforces Axle Load Limits to Protect Roads

Zimbabwe has begun strict enforcement of axle load limits to curb road damage from overloaded trucks, protect trade routes, and enhance transport safety (image source)

The Zimbabwean government has announced the strict enforcement of axle load limits on the country’s roads, a move aimed at curbing infrastructure damage caused by overloaded trucks and reducing the ballooning cost of road maintenance. The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development confirmed that weighbridge inspections will be intensified along major highways, particularly on regional corridors such as the Beitbridge–Harare–Chirundu and Mutare–Harare routes. These roads are vital arteries for trade between Zimbabwe and its neighbours, including South Africa, Zambia, and Mozambique.

Transport Minister Felix Mhona said the decision follows a surge in road degradation linked to overloaded haulage trucks, many of which exceed legal weight limits. “We are losing millions of dollars annually to road repairs that could be avoided if transporters complied with axle load regulations,” Mhona stated during a press briefing in Harare. The enforcement campaign will involve the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA), the Vehicle Inspectorate Department (VID), and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP). Mobile and fixed weighbridges will be deployed to monitor compliance, and violators will face stiff penalties, including fines, impoundment of vehicles, and possible suspension of operating licences.

Industry stakeholders have expressed mixed reactions. While some logistics companies support the move as a necessary step to preserve road infrastructure, others warn that the crackdown could disrupt supply chains and increase transport costs. “We understand the need for regulation, but we urge the government to ensure that enforcement is fair and not used as a revenue-generating tool,” said a spokesperson for the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has long advocated for harmonised axle load limits across member states to facilitate smoother cross-border trade. Zimbabwe’s renewed focus on enforcement aligns with regional protocols and could improve the country’s competitiveness as a transit hub.

However, transporters have raised concerns about the condition and availability of weighbridge facilities. Some argue that outdated or malfunctioning equipment could lead to inaccurate readings and unfair penalties. In response, the Ministry has pledged to upgrade existing infrastructure and ensure transparency in enforcement procedures.

Road safety advocates have welcomed the move, noting that overloaded trucks not only damage roads but also pose serious risks to other motorists. “This is a public safety issue as much as it is an infrastructure one,” said a representative from the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe. As enforcement begins, authorities hope the initiative will extend the lifespan of roads, reduce maintenance costs, and promote responsible freight practices. The success of the programme, however, will depend on consistent application, stakeholder buy-in, and investment in modern monitoring systems.