Heavy trucks damage newly built sidewalks on Aubrey Barker and Diamond Back roads

Heavy-duty trucks and industrial vehicles are causing damage to newly constructed sidewalks and drainage covers along Aubrey Barker Road and Diamond Back Road, the Ministry of Public Works said on Monday.

The ministry said inspections showed the structures were not defective but were being used beyond their intended load-bearing capacity.

It said the walkways were designed as reinforced drain covers for pedestrian use and light residential traffic, including small vehicles accessing private properties, as well as short-term parking for light cars.

However, the ministry said it has observed repeated use by heavy trucks and machinery, resulting in cracking and structural failure.

“These structures are not designed for heavy haulage routes or industrial parking,” the ministry said, adding that the weight of such vehicles exceeds engineering specifications.

It warned that continued misuse would lead to safety hazards, further infrastructure damage and additional public expenditure on repairs, as well as possible disruption from remedial works.

The ministry urged truck operators and contractors to use designated heavy-vehicle parking areas and to keep construction deliveries on main roadways. It also recommended temporary protective measures, such as steel plating, where heavy access is unavoidable.

The ministry said it would continue monitoring the affected areas and warned that those responsible for deliberate damage to public infrastructure could be held liable for repair costs.