99 new buses cleared as Dar es Salaam's second BRT phase set to be launched

Dar es Salaam's second phase of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system is set to begin operations on September 1, the city's Rapid Transit Agency (DART) has confirmed, despite pending logistical and infrastructural challenges.

The 20.3-kilometre corridor, running from Tanzania's Central Business District to Mbagala via Kilwa Road, is expected to ease years of commuting challenges for Tanzanian residents.

Construction was completed in 2023, but delays in bus deliveries, sourced from China, and support infrastructure have stalled the launch. Phase Two is designed to operate 755 buses in stages.

According to Dart CEO Athuman Kihamia, 99 buses are already being cleared at the port for immediate deployment, with additional consignments expected by the end of August.

"We expect Lake Energies to hand over the CNG (compressed natural gas) filling station to Dart next week for final inspection. Construction is progressing well, and operations will start as planned," Athuman told The Citizen on Wednesday during an inspection tour of the Kivukoni Terminal.

He added that one million smart cards have been procured ahead of the launch, with electronic ticketing gates from the UK and China expected before the end of the month. Athuman maintained that operations would proceed on schedule even if some equipment arrived late.

"The only issue that might affect the timing would be if the operator fails to clear the buses at the port. Otherwise, we are ready," he said.

On fares, Athuman noted that the Land Transport Regulatory Authority (Latra) would set official tariffs as directed by Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa. At the same time, he warned against requests for private access to the BRT lanes, stressing that only buses will be granted access.

"We have been receiving such requests, but Dart will not issue permits. Emergencies must be managed through proper planning," he said.

Recruitment is also underway. Mofat Company Limited, one of the contracted operators, has advertised 423 positions, including 255 drivers and 158 station assistants, with total staffing expected to reach 1,100.

"This is just the beginning. Once the buses arrive, additional recruitment will follow," said chief operations officer Mabrouk Masasi.

"All the buses will be stationed at the Mbagala terminal once they arrive. We have also learnt from the first phase that automated systems are crucial to ensure efficiency and reliability."

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