Cameroon Cracks Down on Unsecured Container Trucks Following Fatal Accidents

A day earlier, a similar incident at the Ndokoti tunnel in Douala claimed two more lives. These events have brought attention to the recently established regulations that prohibit the circulation of trucks transporting containers without proper security measures within the city limits of Douala.

The newly enacted order outlines strict guidelines for the movement of container trucks in the region, specifying the responsibilities of both truck drivers and owners of articulated and semi-articulated trucks. The regulations aim to enhance safety on public roads by ensuring that all containerized cargo is securely transported.

Read also: Container Accident in Yaounde Leaves 3 Dead and 9 Injured

Key Requirements for Transporters and Truck Drivers

Under the new order, all transporters of containers are now required to:

1. Pre-Inspection: Have their vehicles and container fixation equipment inspected beforehand by an approved automotive technical inspection center certified by the Ministry of Transport.
2. Loading Restrictions: Ensure that the loading does not exceed the walls of the container when it is placed on the trailer.
3. Security Checks: Verify that the container's seals and truck anchoring hooks are intact and undamaged.
4. Debris Prevention: Ensure that no debris from the transported goods is left on the road during transit.
5. Proper Signaling: Adhere to proper traffic signaling rules during transport or when parking container trucks on public roads.

Sanctions for Non-Compliance

The order also imposes sanctions for non-compliance. Each truck driver must ensure that all necessary checks are carried out before any container is transported and must provide a complete inspection checklist to their team. Failure to comply with these measures during inspections by municipal police or national police officers will result in penalties.

For those caught violating the rules, the order stipulates:

• A fine of 25,000 FCFA for individuals (drivers).
• A fine of 100,000 FCFA for legal entities (companies).
• Immediate impounding of any truck caught violating these regulations.

Additionally, the order mandates that any truck caught in violation of these standards will be immobilized with a boot (a device to prevent movement) as a further deterrent.

Focus on Road Safety: New Measures and Ongoing Improvements

The regulation comes as part of the government's continued efforts to improve road safety in the region. To complement these measures, it has been announced that trucks will soon be equipped with cameras to monitor and ensure compliance with safety standards. The move to regulate container truck transport in Douala aims to prevent further accidents and safeguard both road users and pedestrians.

As these regulations are enforced, the city of Douala hopes to address the ongoing safety concerns and improve the overall security of its road network.