Punjab Highways Police Authorized to Enforce Axle Load Rules with Hefty Fines

In a significant move to protect the infrastructure of Punjab, Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman has authorized the Punjab Highways Police (PHP) to unload excess weight from freight vehicles. This decision, made during a meeting at the Civil Secretariat, aims to enforce axle load rules more effectively and prevent damage to roads.

The meeting also proposed increasing the fine for violating axle load rules to Rs50,000. The Chief Secretary emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Roads are a valuable national asset, and their protection from dilapidation would be ensured."

Why this matters: This move is significant as it aims to protect the infrastructure of Punjab, a valuable national asset, from damage caused by overloaded freight vehicles. If not enforced, it could lead to a significant financial burden on the government and affect the overall economy.

The PHP has already implemented axle load rules on 17 major highways across the province. Permanent weigh stations have been established at nine locations to check freight vehicles. The axle load management regime is currently in effect on 1,700 kilometers of highways in Punjab, leading to a noticeable reduction in violations.

The Chief Secretary highlighted the financial impact of axle load rule violations, noting that roads built at the cost of billions of rupees were damaged in the past as a result of non-implementation of these rules. He directed relevant authorities to take immediate measures to save roads from damage and include new roads in the axle load management regime.

Officials from the Transport Department, the Chairman of the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB), and all divisional commissioners participated in the meeting, either in person or via video link. The collaborative effort is expected to enhance the effectiveness of the axle load management system and ensure the longevity of Punjab's road infrastructure.

By empowering the Punjab Highways Police with the authority to unload excess weight and proposing a substantial increase in fines, the provincial government aims to curb the damage caused by overloaded freight vehicles. These measures are essential to maintaining the integrity of the roads and safeguarding the significant financial investments made in their construction.

The initiative reflects a broader commitment to infrastructure preservation and efficient transportation management in Punjab. The province's continued development and expansion of its road network will rely on such regulatory measures to ensure sustainable growth and protect public assets.

Key Takeaways

• Punjab Highways Police authorized to unload excess weight from freight vehicles.
• Fine for violating axle load rules proposed to increase to Rs50,000.
• Axle load management regime in effect on 1,700 km of Punjab highways.
• Permanent weigh stations established at 9 locations to check freight vehicles.
• Initiative aims to protect Punjab's road infrastructure from damage.