Mozambique’s toll roads are currently free for use due to violent protests, causing concerns about future maintenance and safety. The government highlights that lack of toll revenue might lead to deteriorated road conditions, resulting in difficult access for vehicles. Talks are ongoing to resolve the issue, especially given the involvement of local communities in the protests.
In Mozambique, at least 15 toll roads managed by Rede Viária de Moçambique (REVIMO) and Trans African Concessions (TRAC) are not charging fees due to ongoing violent demonstrations in various cities. The spokesperson for the Council of Ministers, Inocêncio Impissa, noted that the lack of toll payments could negatively affect the maintenance of these roads, potentially compromising safe vehicle circulation.
Impissa expressed concerns about the future state of toll roads, predicting “serious access problems” if the current situation continues. He emphasized that without toll revenue, there would be insufficient resources to maintain the roads, which would deteriorate over time.
Motorists have refrained from paying tolls for more than three months, following the violent clashes that erupted when the government attempted to resume toll collection in January. These demonstrations are linked to political unrest following the October 2024 elections, where presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane lost to current President Daniel Chapo.
The government is actively engaging in dialogue with involved parties to resolve the situation and restore normal operations. Impissa highlighted that many individuals vandalizing toll infrastructure belong to local communities that do not actually possess vehicles, underscoring a disconnect between toll policies and the community’s interests.
The ongoing demonstrations in Mozambique significantly hinder the operation of toll roads, raising concerns about infrastructure maintenance and safe vehicle access. With motorists refusing to pay tolls amid political unrest, future road conditions may worsen. The government is striving for dialogue to address these issues and find a resolution that considers community perspectives.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
