The Busia Weighbridge, a key gateway for cargo traffic between Kenya and neighboring countries, has undergone major upgrades aimed at boosting efficiency and addressing past congestion challenges.
Speaking during an inspection tour, Eng. Wellington Odali, the Technical Manager at the Kenya National Highways Authority(KeNHA)-managed weighbridge, highlighted the notable improvements that have modernized operations.
Among the key enhancements is the addition of a second scale on the Kisumu-bound side.
Previously, a single scale served traffic in both directions, leading to frequent snarl-ups. With the new scale set to be operational in the coming days, traffic flow is expected to improve significantly.
Further investments include the construction of two modern holding yards on both sides of the bridge.
According to Odali, trucks impounded for overloading will now park safely within designated, well-lit yards, complete with perimeter fencing. This eliminates the past practice of holding trucks on road reserves, which posed safety risks for both road users and the cargo transporters.
To ensure uninterrupted operations, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has upgraded power systems at the station, installing a new generator and UPS system. These enhancements address previous power supply issues and ensure consistent service delivery.
KeNHA has also announced plans to roll out additional virtual weighbridges across the country to complement physical weigh stations. These virtual systems, designed to detect and monitor axle loads remotely, will further help curb overloading, a key contributor to road deterioration.
The strategic investments at Busia Weighbridge form part of KeNHA’s broader agenda to improve transport infrastructure, safeguard road networks, and streamline cross-border trade. These improvements not only benefit transporters but also enhance Kenya’s position as a regional trade hub.
