Plans under way to modernise key weighbridges

Plans are under way to modernise three weighbridges in a bid to reduce perennial congestion at the port of Mombasa and ease movement of cargo through the Northern Corridor to the East African countries.

Transport and Infrastructure secretary Michael Kamau has revealed that a consignment of modern equipment imported from South Africa is expected next week, adding that priority would be given to the Mariakani bridge, which is notorious for congestion.

EDITORIAL: Quick solution to weighbridge mess required

“The modernisation of the weighbridges would not only reduce congestion but also enable goods to reach their destination within the stipulated time frame,” said Mr Kamau.

Apart from Mariakani, Mr Kamau added that the Mlolongo and Gilgil weighing points, which are the major bottlenecks in transportation of cargo, will be automated to deal with the hitches persistently contributing to high costs of transportation.

“We are giving priority to the Mariakani weighbridge due to the notoriety in congestion and bearing in mind its proximity to the Mombasa port,” added Mr Kamau.

Kenya is annually losing millions of shillings due to congestion and other complexities associated with transport of goods from the port of Mombasa.

Landlocked countries depending on the port are reportedly looking for alternative routes to import and export their goods.

The World Bank has said that Kenya risks being the only one to use the port if the government does not speedily and adequately addresses the recurrent congestion and delays in clearance of goods in transit.

Eng Kamau further revealed that East Africa transport ministers had unanimously agreed on the axle load control limit and the Bill was past the reading stage in the East African Legislative Assembly.

The Cabinet secretary further said that shipping, clearance and transport stakeholders had unanimously agreed to observe the axle load rule and that goods exceeding the stipulated rule would be transported by rail.