Long truck queues at Wenda Weighbridge irk Iringa RC

Iringa. Iringa Regional Commissioner Kheri James has expressed deep dissatisfaction with the persistent congestion of cargo trucks at the Wenda weighbridge in Mgama, along the Iringa–Mbeya highway, warning that the situation poses a serious threat to socio-economic progress in the Southern Highlands.

Speaking during a special meeting with heads of public and private institutions in the region, Mr James said the long queues at the weighbridge have severely disrupted business activities, public transport, and emergency response services. He urged the Tanzania National Roads Agency (Tanroads) to take immediate action before the problem spirals into a national crisis.

“It is unacceptable for trucks to be stuck at the weighbridge for hours, or even an entire day, especially after the government has made substantial investments in our road infrastructure. This delays trade, endangers lives, and undermines the economic productivity of regions that depend on this vital transport corridor,” said Mr James.

He added that the delays are inflicting considerable financial losses on the government due to reduced revenue collections, while also disrupting essential services such as ambulance movement and inconveniencing road users.

“We need to know how many patients have died because ambulances couldn’t get through. Traders and transporters are losing both time and money. This situation is simply unacceptable,” he stressed.

To ensure swift resolution, the Regional Commissioner issued a seven-day ultimatum to Tanroads to resolve the matter and submit a comprehensive report to the Iringa Regional Administrative Secretary, Doris Kalasa, outlining both immediate and long-term solutions.

While acknowledging ongoing government efforts to advance development in sectors such as electricity, education, water, health, and roads, Mr James cautioned that these gains could be undermined if persistent logistical challenges like the Wenda weighbridge bottleneck remain unresolved.

Several institutional heads at the meeting praised the Regional Commissioner for his hands-on leadership and for convening what they described as a results-driven session aimed at enhancing service delivery through coordinated efforts.

“Meetings like this foster inter-agency collaboration. When we each play our part effectively, we build a stronger and more progressive region,” said one participant.