Cross-border bus operators in Namibia are calling for priority access at weighbridges to minimize delays caused by lengthy truck queues. The operators argue that buses are often forced to queue behind cargo trucks, resulting in significant waiting times that can inconvenience passengers and impact scheduled departure and arrival times. This issue affects not only the bus operators but also their passengers who may have time-sensitive engagements.
Timboon Coaches, which operates between Zimbabwe and Namibia through Zambia and Katima Mulilo, has urged the Ministry of Works and Transport to introduce a priority system for passenger buses at weighbridges. According to Phibion Taphuma, the operations manager, buses often have to queue in lines that stretch for several kilometers, with waiting times of up to two hours. He notes that neighboring countries such as Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa allow passenger buses to proceed immediately without joining the queue.
Taphuma emphasized that delays can be particularly challenging for vulnerable passengers, including children and pregnant women, who may spend hours waiting at weighbridges. He proposed that a separate queue be designated for buses to proceed directly to weighbridges while trucks remain in their queues. This, he argues, would not compromise mandatory weighing, roadworthy checks, or other safety requirements.
The proposed priority system aims to improve cross-border transport efficiency, reduce delays, and support regional connectivity and tourism. Taphuma requested that the ministry issue guidance or a directive to weighbridge authorities to facilitate the proposed priority system. He stressed that bus operators are law-abiding citizens and are seeking consideration from the minister.
Mbishi Transport, another passenger service operator, has raised similar concerns about the lengthy waiting times at weighbridges. Transport manager Matias Tuhafeni questioned why passenger buses have to wait behind heavy trucks when they do not carry the same loads. He cited the Windhoek weighbridge as a particular bottleneck, where passengers can spend up to an hour waiting in line.
In response to the concerns, Transport Minister Veikko Nekundi stated that transport operators have not previously raised the matter with him and advised them to bring the issue to his attention. The minister's response suggests that the matter may be considered further, but no decision has been made yet.
The bus operators' plea for priority access at weighbridges highlights the challenges faced by the transport sector in Namibia and the need for efficient and streamlined processes to minimize delays and support regional connectivity. The outcome of this request remains to be seen, but it is clear that the issue has significant implications for the transport industry and its passengers.
Key points
- Bus operators in Namibia are seeking priority access at weighbridges to minimize delays caused by lengthy truck queues.
- The proposed priority system aims to improve cross-border transport efficiency, reduce delays, and support regional connectivity and tourism.
- Transport Minister Veikko Nekundi has advised bus operators to bring the issue to his attention, suggesting that the matter may be considered further.
