Pakistan has announced stricter enforcement of axle-load limits on motorways and national highways, authorities warnned that overloaded vehicles will not be allowed to enter the country’s motorways.
Federal Minister of Communications Abdul Aleem Khan directed relevant authorities to ensure that prescribed weight limits are strictly followed. He said that no overloaded vehicle should be allowed to enter the motorways, stressing that enforcement is necessary to protect road infrastructure and improve traffic safety.
The government’s decision comes to amid concerns over the damage caused by heavy and overloaded vehicles to highways and motorways. Excessive loads can accelerate road deterioration, increase maintenance costs and create serious safety risks for motorists and other road users.
During discussions with representatives of the transport sector, concerns raised by Mazda operators and owners of 10-wheel trucks were also taken up. The minister called for dialogue to address their genuine concerns while maintaining the government’s commitment to enforcing axle-load regulations.
Transporters’ representatives have been invited to Islamabad for further discussions, where their issues will be reviewed and possible solutions explored.
The minister also issued directions to the leadership of the National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) to take measures against corruption within the department. He reportedly gave officials a one-month deadline to eliminate corrupt practices and warned that strict action would be taken against personnel found involved in bribery.
The government has emphasized that enforcement of axle-load limits is not only about protecting roads but also about reducing accidents and improving overall road safety.
Authorities are now expected to increase monitoring and enforcement at motorway entry points and other strategic locations. Transport operators have been urged to comply with the prescribed weight limits and cooperate with officials to ensure safer and more sustainable use of Pakistan’s road network.
