Stop daladala chaos, return walkways to pedestrians

DAR ES SALAAM: PEDESTRIAN walkways exist for one purpose: To provide safe passage for people. Yet across many urban centres, especially in Dar es Salaam, these designated lanes are now increasingly being treated as alternative roads by commuter buses, bodabodas and rogue motorists. During peak traffic hours, some daladala drivers abandon congested roads and divert onto pedestrian walkways, forcing people to jump aside or risk injury. This dangerous practice has become far too common and demands immediate action.

The law is clear. Pedestrian lanes are reserved exclusively for pedestrians. They are not shortcuts for impatient drivers or escape routes during traffic congestion. Unfortunately, weak enforcement has allowed this illegal behaviour to flourish, exposing children, older people, persons with disabilities and other pedestrians to unnecessary danger every day.

Concerned government authorities should reinforce existing laws and ensure they are applied consistently. Public infrastructure is built for specific purposes, and respecting those purposes is essential for maintaining order and protecting lives. Walkways should remain free from all motor vehicles so that people can move safely and confidently without fear, intimidation or constant disturbance.

Traffic Police also have a crucial responsibility. Officers should take a tougher stance against daladala drivers who deliberately leave the main carriageway to use pedestrian lanes, particularly during rush hours when traffic congestion is at its worst. Firm enforcement, regular patrols and meaningful penalties would send a clear message that such behaviour will no longer be tolerated. Consistent action, rather than occasional crackdowns, is needed to change this culture.

Equally unacceptable is the growing tendency of lorries and trailers to park along or completely block pedestrian walkways. Such illegal parking forces pedestrians onto busy roads, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Authorities should ensure that offending vehicles are removed promptly and their owners held accountable under the law. No commercial convenience should come before public safety.

ALSO READ: VISION 2050, FROM PLAN TO ACTION: The road to prosperity runs through transport

Motorists should also recognise that respecting pedestrian walkways benefits everyone. When drivers obey traffic laws, accidents are reduced, traffic flows more predictably and mutual respect develops between motorists and pedestrians. Responsible driving reflects discipline, professionalism and consideration for others using public spaces.

Protecting pedestrian walkways is not merely about enforcing traffic regulations. It is about safeguarding lives, promoting orderly transport and preserving every citizen’s right to move freely. The laws already exist. What is required now is unwavering commitment to enforce them fully, consistently and without exception. Pedestrian walkways belong to pedestrians, and they should remain that way.