Petition Urges Strict Enforcement of Axle-Load Laws in Pakistan

A recent petition filed in the Supreme Court of Pakistan has called for stringent enforcement of the country's axle-load laws for trucks to prevent damage to public infrastructure caused by overloaded vehicles. The petition, filed under Article 184(3), seeks to hold accountable those benefiting from non-compliance with these laws, particularly in light of the ongoing China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects that are set to increase truck traffic on highways.

The petitioner, Abbas Afridi, through his counsel Advocate Umer Gillani, has named various government bodies as respondents, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding Pakistan's infrastructure from the adverse effects of overloaded commercial vehicles. The petition highlights the significant financial burden imposed on the public exchequer due to the need for frequent repairs and maintenance caused by overloading.

Despite existing legislation such as the National Highways Safety Ordinance 2000, the petition underscores the persistent challenges posed by overloading, citing a study by the National Transport Research Council. The study reveals accelerated road deterioration and safety concerns associated with overloaded vehicles, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement measures.

The petition advocates for the implementation of axle-load laws to not only save billions in repair costs but also create job opportunities and enhance road safety by reducing the incidence of accidents caused by overloaded trucks. It also addresses the issue of weighing scales at national highway entrance points, noting that most trucks leaving factories are already weighed at their gates.

In conclusion, the petition underscores the potential benefits of strict compliance with axle-load laws, emphasizing the positive impact on infrastructure maintenance, job creation, and road safety. The Supreme Court's intervention in this matter could lead to significant improvements in Pakistan's transportation sector and public infrastructure.