DAR ES SALAAM: FOLLOWING the bold move by the Dar es Salaam Rapid Transit (DART) agency to introduce Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) to its fleet of 755 buses under BRT Phase II, experts are optimistic that this initiative will yield significant economic and environmental benefits.
Analysts are particularly enthusiastic about the potential of the CNG buses to dramatically reduce operational costs, slash carbon emissions and enhance the efficiency of public transportation.
DART has invited qualified suppliers and investors to submit expressions of interest for the supply of CNG to fuel its 755-bus fleet operating on BRT Phase II.
According to the DART, the selected supplier will construct and operate the CNG refuelling infrastructure (mother and daughter stations) to ensure smooth and continuous operations.
“The supplier will enter into direct contract with bus operators for CNG supply, while DART will oversee regulatory compliance, safety standards and operational effectiveness,” reads part of the DART advertisement.
Speaking to the Daily News, economists and environmental experts expressed optimism, stating that this move will benefit both DART and the residents of Dar es Salaam.
An economist Dr Venance Ndalichako said the initiative would not only enhance sustainability but would also offer an opportunity to harness local resources. He emphasised that shifting to CNG would reduce reliance on costly imports, bolstering national self-sufficiency.
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According to Dr Ndalichako, the strategic pivot represents a crucial step toward building a more resilient, ecoconscious and economically empowered transport system for the future.
He said that the transition will cut operational expenses since CNG is locally available and more affordable, fostering economic growth and stability.
“This move prioritises the use of domestic resources over costly imports. Given the recent volatility in fuel prices, which have been pushing production costs higher, this transition will serve as a safeguard, shielding consumers from the unpredictable surge in transportation costs driven by fluctuating fuel rates,” explained Dr Ndalichako.
“The savings will be substantial, as CNG is far cheaper than conventional fuels. By tapping into local resources, we minimise economic leakages and strengthen economic stability.”
Dr Ndalichako also pointed out the potential for reduced transportation fares, noting that lower energy costs often translate into lower operating expenses.
“Energy costs represent a significant portion of transportation expenses. When fuel prices drop, it opens the door for potential fare reductions for passengers,” he added.
Furthermore, he pointed out that the growing adoption of CNG is likely to spur the establishment of more CNG refuelling stations to meet the increasing demand as more vehicles embrace this cleaner, cheaper technology.
Echoing the sentiments, the Director of Envirocare, Mr Amos Mbwambo said that adopting CNG will play a significant role in mitigating the impacts of climate change, as CNG produces far fewer harmful emissions and contributes less to environmental degradation compared to traditional fuels.
He said that CNG produces far fewer greenhouse gases, making it a more environmentally friendly alternative.
He said that diesel usage greatly contributes to climate change due to carbon emissions, which damage the ozone layer and lead to environmental issues, including global warming.
Furthermore, A regular DART commuter, Mr Khalid Tagalile expressed optimism, particularly about the possibility of reduced fares, believing the shift to CNG will ease transport costs.
“I expect fares to lower because CNG is cheaper than diesel and other fuels. This will provide financial relief to us as commuters and make traveling more affordable. It will also lower the high operational costs associated with diesel powered buses,” he said.
He added that the shift is part of the government’s broader efforts to promote clean energy use, and the adoption of cleaner fuels in public transport systems will encourage others to follow suit.
“This is a commendable initiative by the government to promote clean energy use. It will inspire more people to adopt clean energy solutions,” he said.
