SHILLONG, OCT 28: The Hynñiewtrep Integrated Territorial Organization (HITO), Ri-Bhoi District has urged the Commissioner of Transport to urgently set up a permanent weighbridge at Umiam before the newly constructed Umiam Bridge to check overloading.
In a memorandum to the Commissioner, HITO said that as per the restrictions displayed at the Umiam Bridge Bypass, heavy vehicles are allowed a maximum gross weight of 28.5 metric tonnes.
“Without a properly installed and operational weighbridge before the bridge, it becomes difficult for the authorities to verify the actual gross weight of loaded trucks. Visual inspection alone cannot reliably establish the actual weight of a vehicle carrying coal, cement, stone, sand or other heavy materials,” the organization said.
It warned that movement of overloaded vehicles may put unnecessary stress on public infrastructure and increase risk of accidents.
“The bridge represents a significant public investment and appropriate preventive measures must be established before any avoidable damage occurs,” HITO said.
The organization also referred to the Transport Department’s public notice dated May 20, 2026 on unauthorized modifications to bodies of goods-carrying vehicles, stating that weight verification along with inspections would strengthen enforcement.
HITO demanded that a calibrated weighbridge be installed at a strategic point before the bridge, ensuring continuous monitoring without creating traffic congestion.
It further sought strict enforcement of the 28.5 MT limit, joint enforcement by district administration, traffic police, DTO and engineering wings, and inspection of vehicle dimensions and unauthorized body extensions under the Motor Vehicles Act.
“Pending the establishment of a permanent weighbridge, arrange suitable temporary or mobile weighing facilities and regular inspections at an appropriate location before the bridge,” it said, seeking time-bound implementation.
“This memorandum is submitted in the larger public interest and is not intended to obstruct lawful transportation. The authorities should not wait for bridge damage, a serious accident or loss of life before establishing the necessary preventive infrastructure,” HITO added.
By Our Reporter
