On Sunday, May 25, a clean-up of the Outer Ring Road resulted in the equivalent of approximately three tandem dump trucks of garbage (30 cubic metres) removed from the highway. The garbage consisted of a number of household items, along with a box spring, mattress and a couch.

The three tandem loads of garbage consist of approximately 2,800 garbage bags, about 950 fewer bags than last spring’s clean-up.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure also used the closure to repair guard rails, complete line painting, and sweep interchanges.

The Provincial Government reminds everyone to dispose of their garbage and old household items in a responsible and appropriate manner. All residents have a responsibility to protect the environment and to be mindful of the safety of crews and fellow motorists.

The majority of the debris collected along the Outer Ring Road is the result of unsecured loads. These loads often present a safety hazard for motorists and create litter along the province’s highways. When transporting cargo of any kind, it is the responsibility of the driver to ensure their load is properly secured. The Provincial Government encourages everyone to put public safety first by taking the time to ensure their load is properly secured before they head out on the road.

The Cargo Securement Regulations under the Highway Traffic Act require all motorists using a vehicle to transport cargo, debris or trash on a public roadway to ensure it is properly secured. Failing to comply with the Cargo Securement Regulations can result in a range of outcomes, from a minimum fine of $120, to a maximum fine of $600. Fines apply to all vehicle types, not just commercial vehicles.

Littering on the province’s highways is prohibited under section 163.(1) of the Highway Traffic Act. Penalties range from $100 to $500. In default of payment, an offender can face imprisonment for two to 17 days.

Quotes
“Debris and garbage littering our highways poses a safety hazard for the travelling public. We all have a role to play to ensure road safety for all, including appropriately throwing away garbage items and securing the loads on vehicles prior to travelling on provincial operated highways.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“Seeing litter across our highways and roadsides diminishes our beautiful natural landscape and creates unnecessary safety risks for drivers. I encourage everyone to do their part and help reduce waste in our environment. Proper waste management takes just a minute of time while litter lasts a lifetime.”
Honourable Dr. Scott Reid
Minister of Environment and Climate Change

“Properly securing cargo is a critical responsibility for anyone who uses a vehicle to transport materials on our roads and highways. Flying debris can have devastating consequences for others, and it creates unsightly litter. I encourage everyone to take the time to ensure the materials in their vehicles safely reach their intended destination by covering them or securely tying them down.”
Honourable Sarah Stoodley
Minister of Government Modernization and Service Delivery

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Learn more
Cargo Securement Regulations