Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan has directed authorities to remove legal and operational hurdles in the National Highway Authority's axle load control framework within one week.

Khan chaired a meeting to review the implementation of the axle load regime and stressed the need for stronger enforcement to protect national highways and improve road safety.

Factories loading overweight trucks to face fines

The minister instructed officials to provide transporters with clear information about vehicle structures and permissible weight limits.

He also ordered authorities to identify factories and other loading points that put excessive weight on trucks and impose fines on those responsible for violations.

The move is aimed at reducing damage to roads caused by overloaded freight vehicles and ensuring transport operators follow weight regulations.

Weigh stations to become mandatory

Khan directed officials to make it mandatory for freight vehicles to pass through weigh stations before travelling on major routes.

He also ordered the full automation of weigh stations and called for new facilities to be established along GT Roads, following the system already used on motorways.

AI cameras to track violations

The minister further directed authorities to deploy modern cameras and artificial intelligence technology on motorways to identify vehicles violating axle load rules.

Officials informed the meeting that around 30,000 axle load violations had been recorded during the past six months.

Minister to inspect 10 motorway sites

Khan also decided to personally visit 10 locations on motorways to review the implementation of the axle load regime.

Meanwhile, officials said a modern model weigh station in Sangjani is nearing completion and will meet international standards.

The measures are expected to strengthen enforcement, reduce road damage and improve safety for motorists and freight operators across Pakistan.