N※N

Dar es Salaam BRT Gets Revamp with New Buses

  //stocks-investing.news-articles.net/content/202 .. ar-es-salaam-brt-gets-revamp-with-new-buses.html
  Published in Stocks and Investing on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 0:43 GMT by The Citizen
      Locales:

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania - January 31st, 2026 - The UDA Ruralt (Urban Development Authority Rural and Transport) today announced plans to substantially revitalize Dar es Salaam's Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Phase One system, a critical component of the city's public transportation infrastructure. The initiative centers around the introduction of a new fleet of buses, signaling a renewed commitment to address long-standing issues of reliability and efficiency that have hampered the system for years.

The BRT Phase One, originally envisioned as a flagship project to alleviate congestion and provide affordable transport, has, in recent times, fallen short of its potential. Commuters have consistently reported delays, overcrowded buses, and unpredictable service, leading to decreased ridership and a growing reliance on often more expensive and less sustainable private transport options like dala-dalas (minibuses) and taxis. Sources within the UDA Ruralt confirm that the existing bus fleet has been plagued by aging infrastructure, frequent mechanical breakdowns, and escalating maintenance costs, directly contributing to the service disruptions.

"We recognize the frustration of Dar es Salaam residents who rely on the BRT," stated a UDA Ruralt spokesperson. "The current situation is unacceptable, and we are determined to restore the BRT to its original promise of providing a fast, affordable, and dependable public transportation option."

The specifics of the new bus acquisition are, as of today, still being finalized. However, indications suggest that the UDA Ruralt is considering a range of modern bus types, including potentially electric or hybrid vehicles to align with Tanzania's growing commitment to sustainable transportation. Key considerations will include passenger capacity, fuel efficiency (or energy efficiency in the case of electric buses), accessibility for passengers with disabilities, and adherence to stringent safety standards.

Beyond simply replacing aging vehicles, the UDA Ruralt acknowledges that a holistic approach is necessary for a truly effective revitalization. This includes a comprehensive review of existing BRT infrastructure, including bus stations, dedicated bus lanes, and traffic signal prioritization. There are plans to invest in upgrading bus stations to improve passenger comfort and security, and optimizing traffic flow along BRT corridors to minimize delays. Furthermore, the UDA Ruralt is exploring the implementation of real-time passenger information systems - mobile apps and display boards at stations - to provide commuters with accurate arrival and departure times, enhancing predictability and reducing waiting times. This would mark a significant improvement over the current, often unreliable, system.

This isn't the first attempt to address the BRT's shortcomings. Previous revitalization efforts, undertaken in 2023 and 2024, faced numerous hurdles. Logistical challenges related to procurement, coupled with operational issues such as inadequate driver training and insufficient maintenance capacity, hampered their effectiveness. The UDA Ruralt has reportedly learned from these past experiences, emphasizing the importance of robust project management, proactive maintenance schedules, and a skilled workforce. This time, the authority is emphasizing long-term sustainability through comprehensive maintenance contracts and ongoing driver training programs.

Experts suggest that the success of this revitalization will not only depend on the quality of the new buses and infrastructure upgrades, but also on addressing broader systemic issues within the public transport sector. Competition from dala-dalas, often operating outside of regulatory frameworks, continues to present a challenge. Improving coordination between different modes of transport and streamlining fare collection systems are also seen as crucial steps. Some transport analysts are calling for a unified ticketing system across all public transport options, similar to those implemented in cities like London and Singapore, to further enhance convenience and encourage ridership.

The UDA Ruralt has not yet announced a precise timeline for the rollout of the new buses or the completion of the revitalization plan. However, officials have indicated that the initial phase of the project, involving the delivery of the first tranche of buses and the commencement of infrastructure upgrades, is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2026. The revitalization of BRT Phase One is a critical investment in Dar es Salaam's future, with the potential to significantly improve the quality of life for millions of residents by providing a reliable, affordable, and sustainable transportation solution.