“There are essentially two options on the table [for the Via de Cintura Interna]: one is the installation of toll gantries, and another is the prohibition of heavy vehicle passage [on the VCI]. It’s a technical issue, and we’re looking into what is more effective and less costly. The solution will be one of these two options,” announced Pedro Duarte, president of the Porto Metropolitan Council and mayor of Porto, to journalists today.The mayor, speaking on the sidelines of a meeting of the Porto City Council executive, recalled that at the end of November, when the Minister of Infrastructure and Housing announced the exemption of tolls for heavy vehicles on the CREP/A41 during peak hours from March, it was a measure that had to be “complemented” with other options for the VCI that should be proposed to the government by the end of the year.
“We have a working group that is working on this. It has already held a first meeting, will hold a second next week, and I hope (…) that a conclusion will be reached there, because the commitment is that by the end of the year we present a proposal to the minister,” he declared.
Pedro Duarte assured that the Minister of Infrastructure and Housing, Miguel Pinto Luz, “showed great openness” to accommodate the proposals being considered.
The issue was raised by opposition councilor Manuel Pizarro, who insisted that the exemption of tolls for heavy vehicles on the CREP only during peak hours “is not based on a credible study” and should be implemented 24 hours a day and be complemented with the exemption of tolls on the A4 between Matosinhos and Maia.
Two days after the announcement by Minister Miguel Pinto Luz, parliament approved a PS proposal to amend the State Budget for 2026 to exempt heavy vehicles from tolls on the CREP throughout the day.
“If that happens [the charging of tolls for heavy vehicles outside peak hours], it is very serious. Laws are not for optional compliance,” warned socialist Manuel Pizarro.
Asked about the situation of heavy vehicles on the CREP, Pedro Duarte said that it would have to be resolved by the government.
