Ban on VCI removed 30% of heavy vehicles from the road

The Minister of Infrastructure, Miguel Pinto Luz, reported a 30% decrease in heavy vehicles on the Via de Cintura Interna (VCI) since the prohibition began. This ban, effective from September 15, restricts heavy vehicles without destinations in Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia during weekdays from 7 AM to 9 PM. The ban has also led to a 60% reduction of heavy vehicles on the Arrábida Bridge and approximately 3,500 fewer heavy vehicles crossing the Douro. Additionally, in January, Infraestruturas de Portugal will initiate tenders for improvements on the VCI. The CREP (Circular Regional Exterior do Porto)/A41 remains toll-free for heavy vehicles as an alternative to the VCI prohibition.