The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator has urged truckies to stay safe on the roads after it issued two emergency notices in the midst of flooding in South Australia and Western Australia.
Key rail networks have been forced to close between the states, with heavy rain in the WA outback in the past week.
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The emergency notices will give consent to increased access for road trains up to 53.5 metres between Port Augusta and the WA border, as well as into WA.
“Over the past week, we have seen massive amounts of rain fall on the WA outback, inundating roads and damaging key networks, and our thoughts are with anyone who has been affected,” NHVR chief operations officer Paul Salvati says.
“The flooding in the Eyre Highway area has caused damage to the rail network, forcing it closed.
“In light of this, the NHVR has partnered with WA and SA state transport authorities to deliver this urgent emergency notice.”
This will allow truckies carrying essential supplies and emergency relief to isolated communities to have increased flexibility and access to critical routes.
“Truckies have had to take huge detours to reach their destination due to this flooding, and the NHVR recognises the importance of delivering essential items to the affected communities,” Salvati says.
“However, we are also urging drivers to exercise caution when travelling through these conditions, prioritising safety above all else.
“Due to the heightened risk and uncertainty, the NHVR will be proactively patrolling the region to ensure all heavy vehicle drivers are travelling safely.
“We anticipate more trucks on the road during this time, and with the road conditions unpredictable, the NHVR’s priority is safe, efficient heavy vehicle movements.
“The last thing we want to see is overloaded or unsafe truck operations, with compliance paramount during this time.
“For any driver navigating these challenging conditions, be prepared by taking any necessary precautions, equip yourself and your vehicle appropriately, and always prioritise safe driving practices to ensure a safe and secure journey.
“Operators should carefully brief any drivers who are new to the route, including on the location of rest areas and fuel stops.”
For further information you can find the SA notice here, and the WA notice here.
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