By Kaleb Nghishidivali
OMARURU, August 16- The town of Omaruru, a vital link for transportation between Walvis Bay and Katima Mulilo, is facing escalating safety and infrastructure challenges due to a continuous flow of trucks. The absence of a designated truck port has sparked worries among residents about the deterioration of road surfaces and increased risks for pedestrians and drivers.
Each day, a significant number of trucks carrying essential goods and fuel pass through Omaruru. The lack of a proper rest area for truck drivers often results in trucks being parked around the town, leading to inconvenience and potential hazards. The constant weight and movement of these vehicles have taken a toll on the town’s infrastructure, causing deep cracks and potholes.
A local resident, Onesmus Shilongo, shared his distress about the situation, “The presence of these trucks has transformed our once-charming town into a dusty and unsafe place. The noise, pollution, and damage caused by these vehicles are impacting our quality of life.”
Responding to public concerns, the Omaruru Town Council has initiated discussions with relevant stakeholders, including regional authorities, to explore potential solutions.
Joseph Haipinge, the Executive of Planning and Technical Services in Omaruru, defended the truck traffic, highlighting, “It’s important for people to understand that the Omaruru road serves as the sole corridor for trucks from Angola, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.”
Haipinge also acknowledged the economic contributions made by truck drivers. However, he admitted the town’s insufficient truck port facilities, acknowledging that the current provision within the service station is inadequate.
The creation of a dedicated truck port could provide a secure resting place for drivers and help reduce strain on Omaruru’s infrastructure. By designating a specific area for truck parking, the town could minimize damage and preserve its roads and pavements.
While Haipinge contested claims that trucks were damaging the roads, stating, “The roads are built to withstand the weight of large vehicles,” he did express concern about the situation and the importance of finding a suitable resolution.
“We recognize the frustration of our residents and the negative impact these trucks have on our town. We are actively working towards establishing a proper truck port that will cater to the needs of drivers, while also ensuring the safety and well-being of our community,” Haipinge assured.
Efforts are underway to secure funding for the project, with the town council exploring various financing options, including public-private partnerships and government grants. Establishing a truck port will require meticulous planning and coordination among multiple stakeholders, but it is seen as a critical step in addressing residents’ growing concerns.
In the interim, the Omaruru Town Council is urging residents to remain patient as they strive for a long-term solution. They also encourage community members to report any cases of illegal truck parking or damage caused by heavy vehicles to the relevant authorities.- Namibia Daily News
