By The Respondent ReporterThe Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) is strengthening its vehicle weight control measures to preserve road infrastructure and maximize its lifespan.
According to Engineer Leonard Mombia, TANROADS’ Manager of Weighbridge Operations, this initiative is critical for reducing road maintenance costs and ensuring the sustainability of Tanzania’s transport network.
Speaking from TANROADS headquarters, Engineer Mombia explained that roads are designed to last for specific durations—20 years for asphalt roads and over 40 years for concrete roads.
However, overweight vehicles drastically reduce this lifespan, leading to premature wear and increased maintenance expenses.
“When roads handle vehicles exceeding their weight limits, their lifespan can drop significantly, lasting only 15 years or less instead of the expected 20 years,” he said.
To address this, TANROADS has installed weighbridges at strategic points nationwide, utilizing static, portable, and in-motion systems.
The in-motion weighbridges play a crucial role by screening vehicles for compliance and directing those that exceed the allowable weight to specialized stations for thorough inspection.
The data collected from these systems—including vehicle weight, driver details, ownership information, and travel routes—is critical for road safety and supports other institutions, such as the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) and law enforcement.
“This information enables us to monitor vehicle trends and provide valuable support to partner agencies when needed,” Engineer Mombia noted.
TANROADS implements these measures in line with East African Community regulations governing vehicle weight, length, and width.
These regulations aim to prevent accidents, minimize infrastructure damage, and enhance transport safety. Violators, including drivers of overweight vehicles and those attempting to bypass weighbridges, face fines as stipulated by law.
Under the leadership of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, the government has invested heavily in modernizing weighbridge systems, including advanced in-motion weighing technology.
This investment not only simplifies domestic transport logistics but also strengthens Tanzania’s position as a regional trade hub, benefiting neighboring landlocked countries reliant on its roads and ports.
Engineer Mombia called on transporters to adhere to vehicle weight regulations and utilize weighbridges responsibly.
“Weighbridges are for the benefit of everyone. By protecting our roads, we are safeguarding the country’s economy and the lives of all road users,” he emphasized.
TANROADS remains committed to collaborating with stakeholders to ensure the efficient use of road infrastructure, securing its benefits for current and future generations.