Lebanon considers reinstating mandatory vehicle inspections

Lebanon is considering the reinstatement of mandatory mechanical vehicle inspections, which have been suspended since May 20, 2022. The suspension has allowed vehicles to operate without meeting minimum safety standards, leading to increased pollution from exhaust smoke and higher risks of traffic accidents due to faulty brakes, lights, and tires.

Beyond public safety concerns, the absence of inspections has resulted in the loss of millions of dollars in state revenue. Previously, the government collected a 35% share of revenues from the company managing the inspection centers.

Interior and Municipalities Minister Ahmed Al-Hajjar has reportedly requested the Traffic Management Authority to prepare a tender specification document to launch a new bidding process. The goal is to establish a more transparent and effective mechanism to prevent the previous issues of fraud and corruption that plagued the old system.