TASAC calls for ICDs outside urban areas

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) has urged developers to establish Inland Container Depots (ICDs) outside urban centres, highlighting the importance of rail connectivity and robust logistics to ease city traffic and improve safety.

By relocating these facilities to less crowded locations, the volume of heavy trucks entering the city can be significantly reduced, leading to smoother traffic flow and less road wear.

TASAC Director General Mr Mohammed Salum made the statement during the signing of operational agreements among six key institutions to streamline cargo coordination, storage and transfer from Dar es Salaam Port to the Kwala Inland Container Depot (ICD).

“This shift reduces commute times and lowers the risk of accidents involving heavy freight vehicles, improving road safety for residents,” he said.

The event in Dar es Salaam marked a milestone in Tanzania’s efforts to boost port efficiency and ease congestion in the commercial capital.

Additionally, ensuring these ICDs are rail-linked and logistically sound supports more efficient cargo movement across the country.

Rail connectivity allows for faster, more reliable transport of goods over long distances, reducing reliance on road transport and its associated challenges.

“Transferring cargo operations to Kwala ICD presents a unique opportunity to boost the efficiency of Dar es Salaam Port. I call upon all stakeholders to support this strategic move,” he said.

Strong logistics infrastructure at these depots facilitates seamless handling, storage and distribution of cargo, boosting Tanzania’s trade capacity while promoting sustainable and safer transport systems.

He emphasised the importance of regulatory adherence, transparency and institutional collaboration in developing foundational operational documents for the Kwala ICD.

“This signing event demonstrates how seriously we take the principles of regulation, transparency and inclusiveness in preparing key documents,” said Mr Salum.

“Our regulatory guidance on inland port procedures is designed to ensure that the establishment of ICDs enhances the performance of Dar es Salaam Port without disrupting other social and economic activities in the city.”

Mr Salum further highlighted specific regulatory measures aimed at optimising ICD operations.

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These include requirements for ICDs to be equipped with adequate cargo-handling equipment, integration with railway infrastructure and to be located at least 30 kilometres outside the main port area to reduce congestion and ensure urban safety.

Calling for public support, Mr Salum urged stakeholders especially cargo importers using Dar es Salaam Port to back the government’s efforts to improve port services.

The signing was attended by representatives from the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA), Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC), Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), Tanzania Shipping Agents Association (TASAA), DP World and Tanzania East Africa Gateway Terminal Limited (TEAGL).