The City of Windhoek has introduced a permit system regulating access to its urban road network for freight vehicles with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) of nine tonnes or more.
The system took effect on September 1 with the municipality allowing operators a one-month transition period before camera-based monitoring and spot fine enforcement begin on October 1.
Heavy vehicles travelling through Windhoek without making a delivery, collection or conducting other authorised business in the city must use the bypass road, according to the city’s heavy vehicle access and permit system information sheet.
Windhoek-bound vehicles may use designated routes to access identified industrial areas without a permit. These include Sam Nujoma Drive, Nelson Mandela Avenue, Robert Mugabe Avenue, Mandume Ndemufayo Avenue and David Hosea Meroro Road.
However, operators of vehicles that need to leave the authorised routes and enter load-restricted areas must obtain a permit.
“The city is not prohibiting freight vehicles from entering Windhoek. The aim is to ensure that vehicles enter the urban area only where there is a legitimate operational need while through traffic uses the bypass road,” the municipality said.
The non-refundable application fee is N$600 (R600) per permit. In addition, operators must pay a monthly fee determined by the vehicle’s GVM.
Monthly fees are N$120 (R120) for vehicles from nine tonnes to 15 tonnes, N$250 (R250) for vehicles from 15 tonnes to below 24 tonnes and N$350 (R350) for vehicles from 24 tonnes to 32 tonnes. Vehicles exceeding 32 tonnes are charged N$500 (R500) per month.
Applications may cover a period of between one and 12 months and the city requires at least two working days to process a complete application. Approved operators will receive a permit disc that must be displayed on the vehicle.
From October 1, cameras positioned at strategic entry and exit points will monitor heavy vehicle movements and permit compliance. Windhoek City Police will also conduct roadside inspections.
Military vehicles, emergency response vehicles and registered refuse removal trucks are exempt. Any other exemption or special authorisation must be confirmed by the city in writing.
The municipality said the system intends to reduce road deterioration, congestion, safety risks, noise, emissions and illegal truck parking within the city.
