Africa-Press – Tanzania. DAR Rapid Transit Agency (DART) has announced the resumption of public transport services starting today, beginning with phase one routes from Ubungo Terminal to Gerezani, Kivukoni and Muhimbili.
The move marks a key step toward restoring operations following the damage to infrastructure during the unrest in October, this year.
Speaking to reporters yesterday, DART Head of Communications, William Gatambi, said assessments had been carried out to identify areas safe for service resumption, while repairs continue in the affected sections.
He said that the restoration will follow a phased approach to ensure full system recovery.
Mr Gatambi acknowledged that the disruption of services had severely affected commuters, many of whom struggled to find reliable transport.
“Citizens have faced major transport challenges and we recognise that. We have taken every possible measure to restore services swiftly, even as rehabilitation continues at other stations,” said Mr Gatambi.
He noted that some locations, including Morocco station, have not yet reopened because their electricity networks were burned, preventing engineers from verifying structural integrity and overall system safety.
“Morocco station has not reopened not by choice, but because its entire electrical system was destroyed. Without power, we cannot confirm whether the damaged structures are safe for operation. However, repair work is ongoing, and within the next ten days all routes will be restored,” he explained.
Mr Gatambi added that the damage extended beyond bus stations, affecting essential operational systems such as power networks and data-collection mechanisms. This forced a temporary suspension of services to allow for comprehensive security and technical assessments.
“The destruction did not stop at bus stations. Systems required for data collection and service coordination, including electricity infrastructure at several stations, were also damaged. This made it impossible to resume services quickly without first conducting safety evaluations,” Mr Gatambi said.
Despite service restoration, DART has raised an alarm over those using bus rapid transit lanes, including motorbikes, rickshaws and private vehicles, warning them to stop using the lane as the service is restored.
“These routes are reserved exclusively for DART buses. Unfortunately, we have observed other vehicles using these lanes. We urge them to stop immediately, as it is illegal and puts commuter safety at risk,” Mr Gatambi said.
He further warned that informal traders have begun occupying bus stations and operating businesses inside and around terminal areas, particularly at Kimara stations, posing risks and passenger safety.
“These stations were not built for trading. Their sole purpose is to serve public transport users. We therefore call on anyone conducting unauthorised activities within the stations to cease immediately,” he added.
DART confirmed that it is working closely with the Police Force and other security agencies to enforce compliance and protect public infrastructure, noting that the facilities belong to all citizens and not to individuals or groups.
Mr Gatambi thanked the public for their patience and cooperation during the service interruption and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to delivering safer and more efficient transport services.
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