Since September of last year, trucks with five or more axles have been banned from using the Presidente Dutra Bridge due to ongoing construction, causing traffic disruptions as some drivers defy the prohibition.
Since September of the previous year, a ban on trucks with five or more axles has been in place on the Presidente Dutra Bridge, as part of the ongoing Urban Crossing Complex works in Juazeiro, Bahia. Despite the prohibition set to alleviate congestion during the construction, many drivers continue to cross the bridge unlawfully, contributing to significant traffic delays for those traveling between the cities of Petrolina and Juazeiro. The restriction aims to improve safety and facilitate smoother transit in the area, but defiance by truck drivers is complicating the situation.
The Federal Highway Police (PRF) has enforced this ban rigorously, issuing over 800 fines to vehicles that violate the circulation restrictions. Fines for non-compliance are categorized as medium, costing around R$ 130. However, trucks that get stuck on the bridge due to the restrictions are penalized more severely, as their actions are categorized as deliberate obstruction. This aggravated punishment can multiply fines significantly, reflecting the seriousness of the enforcement efforts aimed at maintaining traffic flow and safety during a challenging construction period.
The ongoing construction and resulting traffic management issues underscore the need for effective communication and enforcement strategies to ensure compliance among truck drivers and minimize disruption for local traffic. As the construction progresses, authorities are likely to continue monitoring and enforcing the truck restrictions to mitigate congestion and enhance the efficiency of the transport corridor between Petrolina and Juazeiro.
