Bus operators heed govt order, shift to Magufuli Terminal

DAR ES SALAAM: A SIGNIFICANT number of buses have shifted to the Magufuli Bus Terminal in Mbezi following a government directive requiring operators using unauthorised pick-up points to relocate to the main facility.

A Daily News spot-check shows the directive has also cleared congestion at Shekilango along Morogoro Road, which was previously crowded with buses picking up passengers bound for upcountry regions.

Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila issued the directive last week, giving operators using private terminals without permits six days to relocate by August 17.

He said the move aims to restore order and protect the city’s image, noting that the government has invested heavily in the construction of the modern terminal, which has capacity to handle more buses.

“The government has invested billions in this terminal. It must be fully utilised,” he said, adding that plans are underway to construct additional satellite terminals in Temeke and Bunju.

By yesterday, most unauthorised pick-up points had complied, with many left deserted as feeder transport ferried passengers to the main terminal.

However, public reaction remains mixed with some residents welcoming the move and citing improved organisation and safety.

Dar es Salaam resident Mr Suedi Hussein said passengers should adapt to structured systems similar to rail and air transport.

\“We are used to disorder. This decision brings order and value,” he said.

Another resident, Seleman Hamis, said the terminal should serve its intended purpose of boarding and dispatch.

To some passengers, the move raised concerns over increased travel costs and inconvenience, especially for those living far from the terminal.

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Mr Juma Mohamed of Chanika said transport from the terminal to home can exceed intercity bus fares.

“You can spend over 30,000/- from the terminal to Chanika, which is more than the fare from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro,” he said.

He added that passengers with luggage face extra costs and difficulties using public transport due to multiple transfers.

A spot check on ride hailing services indicated that a trip from Chanika to the terminal costs about 20,500/- by motorcycle, 30,000/- by three-wheeler and up to 55,000/- by car.

Similarly, Ms Shantiwa Julius of Toangoma, Kigamboni, said early morning travellers may be forced to travel the night before, raising accommodation costs and safety concerns, particularly when returning late.

Taking its stance, the Tanzania Bus Owners Association (TABOA) supported the directive but called for improvements in security, passenger services and feeder transport.

TABOA Chairman Mr Joseph said consultations should have been conducted before relocating private terminals.