PRESS STATEMENT
The Katsina State Safety and Road Traffic Authority (KASSAROTA) has observed a growing trend of heavy-duty trucks being parked on major highways, access roads, and other unauthorized locations for loading, offloading, or vehicle storage, contrary to established traffic regulations.
The Authority has also noted the increasing movement of heavy-duty trucks within urban centres and on major public roads during peak traffic periods, resulting in congestion, delays, and inconvenience to road users in Katsina metropolis and other major towns across the state.
Furthermore, KASSAROTA has observed a rise in the number of broken-down trucks being abandoned on roads without adequate safety measures. In many instances, such vehicles are left without warning signs, hazard lights, or other precautionary measures to alert motorists and pedestrians to potential dangers.
These practices have continued to contribute to road accidents, loss of lives, injuries, property damage, traffic congestion, and hardship for residents of Katsina State.
In order to safeguard public safety, improve traffic management, and protect lives and property, KASSAROTA hereby directs all cargo owners, warehouse operators, transport companies, traders, truck owners, and drivers of heavy-duty vehicles to comply with the following regulations:
1. Entry Hours into Urban Areas
All heavy-duty trucks entering cities or towns for loading or offloading operations must do so only during approved off-peak hours, between 9:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m., or as may be determined by KASSAROTA from time to time.
2. Designated Parking Areas
Heavy-duty trucks must only be parked in locations that do not obstruct traffic flow or hinder pedestrian movement. Occupying any portion of a public roadway in a manner that disrupts traffic is strictly prohibited.
3. Reporting of Vehicle Breakdowns
In the event of a breakdown on any road, the vehicle owner, driver, operator, or representative must immediately notify KASSAROTA through direct contact or the official telephone numbers provided above. Appropriate safety measures, including the placement of warning signs and hazard lights, must be maintained until relevant authorities arrive at the scene.
4. Prior Approval for Loading and Offloading Operations Affecting Traffic
Any loading or offloading activity that may occupy part of a public road or disrupt traffic flow must receive prior approval from KASSAROTA before commencement. This will enable the Authority to implement necessary traffic control measures and ensure public safety.
5. Payment of Waybill and Other Statutory Charges
All heavy-duty trucks entering cities or towns for cargo delivery or collection must pay the prescribed waybill fees and other applicable charges in accordance with KASSAROTA regulations and relevant laws.
6. Mandatory Use of Ring Roads
Heavy-duty trucks that have no business within Katsina metropolis and whose destinations lie outside the city must use the designated Ring Roads provided by the Katsina State Government and avoid passing through the city centre.
Accordingly, the use of inner-city roads by such vehicles is prohibited where alternative Ring Roads exist. This measure is aimed at reducing traffic congestion, improving road safety, protecting lives and property, and preserving urban road infrastructure.
7. Prohibition of Speeding
KASSAROTA has observed instances of excessive speeding by some heavy-duty truck drivers, particularly within Katsina metropolis and surrounding communities.
This practice poses a serious threat to the safety of road users and is strictly prohibited. All drivers and operators of heavy-duty vehicles are therefore directed to comply with legally prescribed speed limits and exercise caution at all times.
8. Prohibition of Overloading and Mixed Transportation of Animals and Persons
The Authority has also observed cases of excessive loading beyond approved capacity as well as the transportation of animals and human passengers in the same vehicle compartment.
These practices are unsafe and violate the laws and regulations of Katsina State. They are therefore strictly prohibited. All transport operators are required to comply with approved loading limits and established transportation safety standards.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Any individual, company, vehicle owner, transport operator, or driver found violating any of these directives or regulations shall be subject to sanctions as provided by law. Such penalties may include a fine of ₦50,000, vehicle impoundment, suspension of operations, prosecution before a competent court of law, or any other lawful measures prescribed under the laws of Katsina State and KASSAROTA regulations.
KASSAROTA urges all stakeholders to comply fully with these directives in order to enhance public safety, improve traffic management, and protect lives and property throughout Katsina State.
Signed
Major Garba Yahaya Rimi
Director General
Katsina State Safety and Road Traffic Authority (KASSAROTA)
