The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) faces a growing challenge: attacks from transporters disgruntled by axle load enforcement. These attacks, often violent, threaten the safety of KeNHA officials and undermine their crucial role in protecting Kenya’s roads.
Axle load limits are regulations that specify the maximum weight a vehicle’s axle can carry. Speaking to the media during the launch of Thika High Court, Juja weighbridge manager Willy Thuku said transporters are way-laying mobile teams.
“Sometimes we get attacked when effecting arrests on trucks that have exceeded these limits. Our Police unit is currently investigating an attack on one of our teams.”
The Rise of Rogue Transporters
Some transporters prioritize profit over road safety. By overloading their vehicles, they can squeeze in more goods, increasing their earnings.
When faced with KeNHA’s enforcement efforts, these transporters sometimes resort to violence. These attacks range from verbal threats and intimidation to physical assaults and damage to KeNHA vehicles.
“These attacks not only endanger KeNHA staff but also create a climate of fear and intimidation. It discourages enforcement efforts, potentially allowing overloaded vehicles to continue damaging roads.” He added.
Addressing this issue requires a multi-pronged approach. At Kanyonyo in Kitui County, KeNHA is setting up a stationary weighbridge to expand its surveillance on rogue truckers in the region.
Additional officers will be deployed to address the rise of goons targeting KeNHA staff vehicles.
