
Truck Overloading Rules in India
The logistics industry in India is rapidly expanding, and with it comes a rising demand for trucks. To meet these demands, some companies resort to overloading trucks, which is both unsafe and illegal.
What Are Overloaded Trucks?
Overloaded trucks carry more weight than their prescribed load limit. Every truck has a specific load capacity, and exceeding this limit leads to overloading. Overloaded trucks pose significant risks, including accidents, higher fuel consumption, and increased maintenance costs.
Rules to Prevent Truck Overloading
To combat overloading, the Indian government enforces strict regulations under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988:
- Section 113:
Supreme Court Ruling on Overloading (2018)
In July 2018, the Supreme Court of India passed a landmark judgment:
Penalties for Overloaded Trucks
Heavy fines are imposed at key border points across India to curb overloading:
Border | Fine Amount |
Karnataka-Maharashtra (Nipani) | ₹25,000 |
Kolkata-West Bengal (Jhargram) | ₹25,000 |
West Bengal-Assam (Srirampur) | ₹25,000 |
Truck Load Capacities
Truck capacity varies based on axle type, truck size, and road conditions. Here’s a general guide:
Axle Type | Maximum Weight (Tonnes) |
Single Axle (1 tyre) | 3 |
Single Axle (2 tyres) | 7.5 |
Single Axle (4 tyres) | 11.5 |
Tandem Axle (rigid vehicles) | 21 |
Tandem Axle (puller tractors) | 28.5 |
Tri-Axle (rigid vehicles) | 27 |
Modular Hydraulic Trailers (2 axles) | 18 |
Final Thoughts
Despite strict laws and penalties, truck overloading remains a persistent issue in India. Overloaded trucks not only damage roads but also endanger lives. To ensure safer roads, logistics companies must adopt responsible practices, and the public must be educated on the consequences of overloading. Together, we can work towards a safer and more sustainable transportation system.
FAQs
1. What is truck overloading?
Carrying more weight than a truck’s maximum load capacity.
2. What is the penalty for truck overloading?
₹20,000 for the first tonne and ₹2,000 for every additional tonne.
3. What are the dangers of overloading trucks?
It increases the risk of accidents, fuel consumption, and maintenance costs.
4. What is the capacity of a single axle with two tyres?
7.5 tonnes.
5. What is the capacity of a tri-axle truck?
27 tonnes.