Heavy vehicles raise traffic safety concerns

MUSCAT, NOV 11
Daily commuters on Muscat Expressway and Sultan Qaboos Road continue to face traffic congestion and lengthy delays, with heavy vehicles frequently seen on major roads during peak hours, despite Royal Oman Police (ROP) restrictions on their movement.
Container trailers, tipper trucks and tankers are reportedly seen on key roads in Muscat Governorate during busy commuting periods, particularly between 7.30 am and 9.30 am and from 2 pm to 4 pm, when thousands of motorists travel to and from offices and schools.
Under ROP regulations aimed at easing congestion and improving road safety, the movement of heavy vehicles is prohibited from Sunday to Thursday between noon and 4 pm, and on Saturdays from 4 pm to 10 pm.
During the holy month of Ramadhan, the restrictions are more stringent. Heavy vehicles are prohibited from Sunday to Thursday between 7 am and 9.30 am and from noon to 4 pm. On Saturdays, the restriction applies from 6 pm to 10 pm.
The restrictions cover major roads across Muscat Governorate, including Al Dakhiliyah Road (Muscat-Bidbid Bridge), Al Batinah Highway/Sultan Qaboos Road (from Al Qurum to Khatmat Milahah) and Sultan Thuwayni bin Said Road (from Burj Al Sahwa to Bidbid).
However, commuters say heavy vehicles continue to enter major highways during busy periods, particularly around Al Rusayl, Al Maabela and Barka, contributing to bottlenecks, sudden braking and long traffic queues.
'These heavy vehicles are not supposed to ply during office hours, but you see them everywhere at 8 am. One slow truck in the middle lane blocks three lanes behind it,' said a commuter who regularly travels from Al Khuwair to Ghala.
Road safety experts warn that the movement of heavy vehicles during peak traffic hours can increase the risk of rear-end collisions, disrupt traffic flow and contribute to road deterioration.
The ROP has repeatedly urged truck drivers and transport companies to comply with the restrictions, stressing the importance of responsible driving and public safety. Violations can result in fines and vehicle detention.
Motorists have called for stronger enforcement, including CCTV-based monitoring along major highways and time-restricted permits supported by GPS tracking to ensure compliance.
Commuters who encounter heavy vehicles violating the restrictions can record the vehicle's registration number, time and location and report the incident through the ROP mobile application or by calling 9999.
The ROP has reiterated its appeal to transport companies and heavy vehicle operators to observe the designated timings and help ensure safer and smoother traffic movement across Oman.