Ban removed 30% of heavy vehicles from the VCI in Porto says Minister Pinto Luz

Minister Miguel Pinto Luz reported a 30% decrease in heavy vehicles on Porto's 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 minister noted a 60% reduction of heavy vehicles on the Arrábida Bridge and approximately 3,500 fewer heavy vehicles crossing the Douro. Additionally, improvements to the VCI are planned for January, and the Circular Regional Exterior do Porto (CREP)/A41 has been toll-free since the start of the year as an alternative route. Cooperation protocols were signed for managing the VCI and evaluating external circular roads.