Online Reporter
THE City of Harare has intensified enforcement against the illegal parking of heavy-duty trucks in residential areas, warning that offending vehicles will be ticketed and impounded as authorities move to restore order, safety and uninterrupted service delivery in neighbourhoods across the capital.
In a statement on Tuesday, the City raised concern over the sharp increase in the number of heavy-duty trucks being parked in residential suburbs, a practice that is illegal under municipal by-laws.
According to the local authority, the growing trend has resulted in blocked roads, disrupted traffic flow and restricted access for essential service delivery vehicles, including refuse collection trucks and emergency responders.
“The City of Harare would like to advise heavy duty truck owners and drivers that it is illegal to park their trucks in residential areas. We have noted with concern that there is a huge increase in heavy duty trucks being parked in residential areas thereby blocking traffic. In some areas even service delivery vehicles are being blocked,” read the statement.
Municipal authorities said enforcement teams are already issuing fines to owners and drivers whose vehicles are found parked unlawfully, adding that the operation will continue until full compliance is achieved.
The City warned that payment of fines alone will not be sufficient if vehicles remain parked in prohibited areas.
“The City of Harare is issuing tickets for illegally parked heavy duty trucks and the exercise will continue until there is total compliance. If the trucks are not removed even after paying the fines, they will be impounded.”
The local authority said the clampdown is aimed at protecting residential infrastructure, ensuring public safety and maintaining smooth traffic movement, particularly in high-density suburbs where roads were not designed to accommodate heavy commercial vehicles.
Residents in affected areas have previously raised concerns over congestion, road damage and safety risks associated with the presence of large trucks in residential streets.
The City of Harare has urged truck owners and operators to use designated parking areas and comply fully with municipal regulations to avoid penalties and the risk of vehicle impoundment.
