DAR ES SALAAM: AS the year draws to a close and many Tanzanians prepare to travel to their hometowns for the holiday season, the Land Transport Regulatory Authority (LATRA) has issued a reminder for those using bus transportation to ensure they are issued electronic tickets with accurate details.
The measure is crucial for facilitating insurance tracking in case of emergencies during their travels. The reminder was issued by LATRA’s Director General, CPA Habibu Suluo, following an impromptu inspection at the Magufuli Bus Terminal in Dar es Salaam over the weekend.
The inspection, conducted in collaboration with the Police Force, aimed to assess the current state of transportation services and enhance safety during the busy festive period. The inspection focused on several key areas, including the proper use of the Driver Identification Button (i-Button), correct issuance of electronic tickets and alcohol testing for bus drivers.
“We are committed to ensuring that buses are available for passengers and that they travel at designated fares without any inconvenience,” CPA Suluo stated.
He added: “Overall, the situation is positive, but there is a concerning issue regarding electronic ticket issuance, especially for passengers who disembark along the way.
For instance, passengers travelling to Musoma and disembarking in Morogoro are not being issued tickets, which poses a safety risk.”
To address this, CPA Suluo urged passengers to use the Passenger Information System (PIS) available at https://pis.latra.go.tz/ to track the speed of buses.
He also encouraged passengers to report any dangerous driving behaviour by calling LATRA’s toll-free numbers: 0800110019 or 0800110020.
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Latra uses the Vehicle Tracking System (VTS) to monitor bus operations and through the i-Button, they can track driver behaviour.
CPA Suluo reiterated that all drivers must adhere to regulations, emphasising the authority’s commitment to safety. Regarding transport operators with additional needs during the festive season, CPA Suluo advised them to submit applications to LATRA for temporary permits.
He stressed that these operators must meet licensing requirements, including having the VTS system and electronic ticketing in place, as well as having verified drivers.
“So far, LATRA has issued only three temporary permits in the Arusha region and Moshi Municipality and there is no congestion at bus terminals,” he said.
Additionally, he noted that the central railway line from Dar es Salaam to Arusha has increased its trips to three per week, helping to reduce passenger congestion.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Ramadhani Ng’anzi, Commander of the Traffic Police Force, assured the public that police inspections at various bus terminals across the country would continue throughout the festive season to ensure passenger safety.
“Today (Saturday), we carried out a routine inspection in collaboration with LATRA, providing education to drivers on their responsibilities and testing the alcohol levels of bus drivers. This nationwide inspection will continue and we are committed to ensuring that all passengers are safe,” DCP Ng’anzi said.
He also emphasised, “We believe that a Tanzania without road accidents is possible and we urge all motorists to strictly adhere to the Road Traffic Act and regulations. Those who violate the law will face legal consequences.”
