Kenya National Highways Authority has upped its surveillance on the Northern Corridor after virtual sensors recorded an increase in axle-lifting among truck drivers.
Gilgil cluster manager said the vice has contributed to extensive road damage on the northern corridor.
“Our biggest challenge is axle lifting. This makes drivers put more pressure on the remaining axles, and this eventually damages the expensive roads.”
Axle lifting is a technology that allows trucks to lift one set of wheels. Many manufacturers make the switch automatic and do not allow them to be used on the road. This is due to the overall damage axle-lifting causes on road infrastructure.
Truck drivers have been urged to play their role in safeguarding the Ksh. 3 Trillion road network by abiding by the Axle Load Control Act.
The East Africa Axle Load Control Act 2016 lays out the regional regulations for axle loads that are intended to safeguard vital road infrastructure.
Transporters who violate these rules risk fines of up to Ksh. 45 million or a three-year prison term.
