Uganda Mandates Safety Checks for Sino Trucks, Heavy Dump Trucks

In response to a concerning rise in road accidents involving heavy commercial vehicles, the Ministry of Works and Transport has announced a new safety initiative. Operators of Sino trucks and other heavy dump trucks are now required to have their vehicles inspected within the next two months.

This directive stems from a recent stakeholder meeting that gathered government agencies, truck dealers, owners, operators, drivers, and industry associations. The discussions highlighted critical issues such as the mechanical condition of trucks, overloading, improper load distribution, driver fatigue, and reckless driving.

The inspection will encompass all Sino trucks and heavy dump trucks, with the precise start date to be announced later. This measure is part of broader efforts by the ministry to bolster road safety regulations and improve compliance within the transport sector.

Further actions include plans for stronger monitoring of commercial drivers and the introduction of an accreditation system for truck drivers, which will involve issuing identification badges. A government database is also planned to track driver information, enhancing accountability and facilitating the tracing of responsibility in case of violations or accidents.

Particular focus will be placed on preventing overloading and the unsafe transport of loose materials, such as sand, which can pose significant hazards on public roads. The ministry will also enforce existing regulations on vehicle dimensions and load control, building upon the recently published Roads (Vehicle Dimensions, Vehicle Load Control and Enforcement Measures) Regulations, 2026.

The ministry aims not only to remove defective vehicles from the road but also to foster greater accountability among truck owners, operators, and drivers. Officials are expected to provide further details regarding the inspection schedule and locations soon.

Source: Nile Post