Porto implements heavy vehicle restrictions on VCI artery

VCI traffic restrictions heavy vehicle ban Porto mobility road safety campaign Portugal traffic enforcement

A new traffic regulation has entered into force in Porto, prohibiting heavy goods vehicles without a specific destination in Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia from using the Via de Cintura Interna (VCI) on weekdays between 07:00 and 21:00. The measure targets vehicles with a gross weight exceeding 3,500 kg, three or more axles, and a minimum height of 1.1 meters. Authorized vehicles must register via a digital platform to access the artery for loading or unloading operations. Authorities noted that drivers are beginning to use alternative routes, such as the CREP, which is exempt from tolls.

In related road safety news, the ‘Cinto-me Vivo’ enforcement campaign concluded with seven deaths and 2,800 accidents recorded across Portugal between September 8 and 14. While the number of fatalities is three lower than the same period last year, authorities reported 619 infractions specifically related to safety devices like seatbelts, helmets, and child restraint systems. The GNR and PSP continue to monitor road compliance as part of a broader national safety plan.

Entities

Guarda Nacional Republicana · Infraestruturas de Portugal · PSP · Pedro Duarte · Polícia de Segurança Pública · Porto · VCI · Via de Cintura Interna · Vila Nova de Gaia

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[● 3 SOURCES] The A41 (CREP) has been toll-free for these heavy vehicles since February. www.jornaldenegocios.pt
[○ 1 SOURCE] Transport associations warn that the measure causes detours of over 60 km per operation, increasing fuel costs and threatening supply chains.
[○ 1 SOURCE] Infraestruturas de Portugal anticipates the removal of over 4,000 heavy goods vehicles from the VCI.
[● 3 SOURCES] The prohibition on the VCI applies on weekdays between 07:00 and 21:00. www.jornaldenegocios.pt
[● 3 SOURCES] Vehicles traveling to or from Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia for loading or unloading are exempt if they register via a digital platform. www.jornaldenegocios.pt
[● 3 SOURCES] The restriction targets heavy goods vehicles with a gross weight over 3,500 kg, three or more axles, and a height of at least 1.1 meters. www.jornaldenegocios.pt