The Via de Cintura Interna (VCI) in Porto has now banned the circulation of heavy vehicles that are not destined for the cities of Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia, between 7am and 9pm on weekdays. This new restriction came into force recently and aims to reduce truck traffic on this urban road.
The GNR considers an increase in traffic on alternative routes to be expected and points to the A20, A44 and A1 motorways as those that will feel the direct impact of the restrictions, while the A43, A3, A41 and sections of the A1 and A20 up to the junction with the A44 may be affected indirectly. The GNR states it is prepared to adjust its operational deployment, with particular attention to road safety accident prevention.
In the early morning hours of the first day of the ban, the PSP in Porto recorded six infractions, according to superintendent Marco Almeida, who considered the balance positive. Drivers appear to be adapting and using alternatives such as CREP/A41, which has been toll-free since the beginning of the year.
The registration platform for truck drivers is operational, although the National Association of Public Road Freight Carriers (Antram) has expressed concern about the implementation. The PSP will maintain mobile enforcement on the A20 and VCI section, with enforcement posts on the periphery where vehicles in irregular situations will be directed.
