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2026-09-15 07:41 UTC → 2026-09-15 09:05 UTC ·
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New restrictions on The heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) have been implemented vehicle (HGV) restrictions on the Via de Cintura Interna (VCI), a major artery connecting Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. (VCI) officially entered into force on Tuesday, September 15. The ban applies to measure prohibits vehicles exceeding 3,500 kg, having three or more axles, and a height of at least 1.1 meters during from using the artery on weekdays between 07:00 and 21:00. Authorities intend to remove approximately 4,000 trucks from the VCI to reduce traffic congestion. To encourage diversions, the Circular Regional Exterior do Porto (CREP/A41) has been exempt from tolls since the start of facilitate the year. Exceptions are permitted for vehicles transition, drivers performing loading or unloading operations in Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia, provided they obtain authorization Gaia may utilize an exception by registering trips in advance via a the dedicated digital platform. Prior to platform (vci.porto.pt) and carrying the implementation, required authorization. Enforcement of these rules is being conducted by the PSP and GNR. As a diversionary route, the Circular Regional Exterior do Porto (CREP/A41) remains exempt from tolls. While transport associations previously warned that of potential technical failures with the required digital registration platform would make it “impossible to operationalize platform, Porto Mayor Pedro Duarte noted that although the new legal obligations.” measure may not fully resolve all traffic issues, it could serve as a “turning point for regional mobility.” Logistics companies have expressed concerns that continue to monitor the impact of the ban will force significant detours, leading to increased on fuel consumption, higher mileage, and added bureaucracy, which may ultimately drive up consumer prices and impact regional supply chains.