Heavy Trucks Face Instant Fines as Government Defends Billion-Dollar Road Upgrades

The government has launched a nationwide crackdown on overloaded trucks, enforcing immediate and severe penalties to safeguard billions of dollars invested in Zimbabwe’s road infrastructure. 

The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development says the operation targets all major highways, with particular focus on the newly rehabilitated Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road.

Announcing the measures on Thursday, the Ministry said the enforcement would begin without delay.

“This serves as a formal notice to all motorists and transport operators regarding the strict enforcement of axle load regulations on Zimbabwe’s major highways, with immediate effect,” the statement read.

The directive comes as contractors prepare to open newly completed sections of the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls highway to traffic.

Authorities say overloaded trucks have long been responsible for premature road damage, including potholes, surface failures, and rising maintenance costs. 

“Overloading severely damages road surfaces, leading to premature potholes, structural failures, and increased public expenditure on repairs.

“It also poses a serious safety risk to all road users,” the Ministry warned.

This enforcement drive is part of the Second Republic’s infrastructure modernization agenda, led by President Mnangagwa, and falls under the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme (ERRP II). 

The Ministry emphasized that the crackdown is not limited to one route.

“Heavy Fines: Any truck found to be overloaded on the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road, or any other major highway, will be subject to severe penalties and fines as prescribed by the country’s laws,” the statement added.

According to the Chronicle, the government has invested heavily in road upgrades across the country. 

Officials say protecting these investments is essential to sustaining economic growth, boosting tourism, and ensuring public safety. 

“To protect this critical infrastructure and ensure its longevity, there will be zero tolerance for overloaded vehicles,” the Ministry said.

Transport operators and drivers have been urged to strictly observe axle load limits. 

The Ministry confirmed that regular checkpoints and weighbridges will be operational to monitor compliance.

“We urge all transport operators and drivers to comply with stipulated axle load limits. Regular checkpoints and weighbridges will be operational to ensure adherence,” the Ministry added.

With enforcement now underway, authorities hope to extend the lifespan of Zimbabwe’s road network and reduce the risk of accidents caused by overloaded vehicles. 

The government says the success of its infrastructure drive depends not only on construction but also on responsible use.