The Kanyonyo Weighbridge, which began operations on February 20, 2025, has strengthened enforcement of vehicle load limits by requiring all vehicles weighing more than 3.5 tonnes to undergo screening before proceeding with their journeys. This move aims to curb overloading and protect road infrastructure. Located on the Garissa road network, the facility has recorded significant improvements in transporter compliance since its inception. The weighbridge is part of efforts to enforce axle-load regulations and prevent overloaded freight vehicles from accelerating the deterioration of roads.
Faith Wanjugu Njani, Assistant Manager and Kanyonyo Weighbridge Cluster Manager, said that the facility had seen a lot of improvement and compliance from transporters. The intervention is aimed at protecting the Garissa road and other routes from damage caused by overloaded vehicles. Under the enforcement system, trucks found to be within the legally permitted weight limits are cleared to continue their journeys, while overloaded vehicles are diverted to a holding yard for detention and compliance procedures.
The mandatory screening at the Kanyonyo Weighbridge is intended to ensure that freight carried along the road network remains within the prescribed weight limits, safeguarding infrastructure already put in place. All vehicles above 3.5 tonnes are required to divert to the weighbridge for screening. This process helps to reduce infrastructure maintenance costs and improve the durability of the regional road network.
Despite the progress made, the weighbridge continues to encounter resistance from some transporters unwilling to cooperate with enforcement procedures. Njani noted that some transporters are not willing to work with the authorities, which can hinder the effectiveness of the weighbridge in enforcing compliance. However, the facility remains committed to ensuring that all vehicles comply with the regulations.
The establishment of the Kanyonyo Weighbridge is part of a broader effort to improve road safety and reduce the risk of accidents caused by overloaded vehicles. By enforcing vehicle load limits, the facility aims to reduce the number of accidents on the Garissa road network and improve the overall safety of road users.
The Kanyonyo Weighbridge has been operational for over a year, and its impact on the Garissa road network has been significant. With the continued enforcement of vehicle load limits, the facility is expected to play a crucial role in reducing the deterioration of roads and improving the durability of the regional road network.
The Kenyan government, through the Kanyonyo Weighbridge, is working to ensure that the country's road network is protected from damage caused by overloaded vehicles. The facility is a key component of the government's efforts to improve road safety and reduce infrastructure maintenance costs.
Key points
- The Kanyonyo Weighbridge has improved compliance among freight transporters using the Garissa road network.
- The facility has strengthened enforcement of vehicle load limits, reducing the risk of accidents and damage to road infrastructure.
- Despite progress, the weighbridge continues to encounter resistance from some transporters unwilling to cooperate with enforcement procedures.
