CoW to Regulate Heavy Freight Traffic with New Access Permit System

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Windhoek: has implemented a Heavy Vehicle Access and Permit System to manage freight movement across the urban road network, effective from 01 September. Enforcement measures, including fines for noncompliance and camera monitoring at entry and exit points, will begin on 01 October.According to Namibia Press Agency, this regulation targets vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of nine tonnes or more. The council stated that heavy vehicles passing through Windhoek without local delivery or collection must use the Windhoek Bypass Road. 'The system is being introduced in response to the growing impact of heavy vehicles on the urban road network, including accelerated road deterioration, increased maintenance costs, congestion, road-safety risks, noise and emissions, as well as illegal parking and overnighting of heavy vehicles,' the statement reads.Heavy vehicles are, however, permitted to access industrial areas via approved routes, provided they adhere to designated paths and comply with all conditions. The council has established several key implementation dates. On 01 September, the permit system will launch, initiating the transition and implementation phase. On 01 October, camera-based monitoring will begin, with spot-fine enforcement that includes traffic law enforcement cameras at strategic entry and exit points to monitor heavy vehicle movements and permit compliance.Additionally, City Police will conduct random roadside checks. 'The City urges freight operators to use the September transition period to identify vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Mass of nine tonnes or more, determine their applicable access requirements, and obtain permits where necessary,' it said.The council urged freight operators to ensure that a valid permit is carried by the approved vehicle and is available for inspection while operating in restricted areas, and further urged all affected operators and businesses to familiarise themselves with designated routes, permit requirements, conditions, and enforcement measures before e nforcement begins. Emergency response vehicles may be exempted from permit requirements where applicable, with any other exemptions or special authorisations subject to written approval by the City.