“The zero ODOL policy must be implemented because ODOL vehicles clearly cause damage to both national and toll roads,” he emphasized here on Friday.
The minister pointed out that ODOL vehicles accelerate road damage much sooner than expected, as the load on the road can increase by two to three times its intended capacity.
“As a result, the lifespan of roads declines drastically, much more than estimated,” he added.
Earlier, Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono also drew attention to the issue of ODOL trucks.
He stated that the government is intensifying efforts to eliminate the ODOL practice due to its highly damaging effects.
The main risks from ODOL include safety concerns, with ODOL trucks identified as a major cause of traffic accidents. Furthermore, the practice leads to severe road damage, he noted.
Related news: ODOL policy may affect food costs, but safety first: govt
Each year, the government allocates up to Rp41 trillion, or around US$2.5 billion, to repair damaged roads.
According to Yudhoyono, if ODOL practices are eliminated, these funds could instead be redirected to converting diesel trucks to electric vehicles.
Meanwhile, Minister of Transportation Dudy Purwagandhi also emphasized the need to accelerate the implementation of the Zero ODOL policy ahead of the 2027 target to help prevent traffic accidents.
The minister noted that the Zero ODOL policy has been in planning since 2009 but has faced repeated delays until now.
He stressed the urgency of expediting the policy to help reduce accidents and improve the safety of the national road transportation system.
Related news: Zero ODOL vehicle policy should begin before 2027, minister says
Translator: Aji, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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