DAR ES SALAAM: A significant number of buses have shifted operations to the Magufuli Bus Terminal in Mbezi following a government directive requiring operators using unauthorised pick-up points to relocate to the main facility.
The move has eased congestion at Shekilango along Morogoro Road, which was previously crowded with buses picking up passengers travelling to upcountry destinations.
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 was intended to restore order and protect the city’s image, while ensuring full use of the modern terminal, which was built with substantial government investment and has capacity to accommodate more buses.
“The government has invested billions in this terminal. It must be fully utilised,” he said, adding that plans were 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.
The move has drawn mixed reactions, with some residents welcoming the decision and saying it will improve organisation and safety.
Dar es Salaam resident Suedi Hussein said passengers should adapt to structured transport systems similar to those used for rail and air travel.
“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 dispatching passengers.
But some passengers have raised concerns about additional travel costs and inconvenience, particularly those living far from the terminal.
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Juma Mohamed of Chanika said the cost of travelling from the terminal to his home can exceed the fare for an intercity journey.
“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 carrying luggage could face further difficulties and expenses because of multiple transfers on public transport.
A spot check of ride-hailing services showed 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.
Shantiwa Julius of Toangoma in Kigamboni said travellers with early morning departures could be forced to travel to the terminal the previous night, increasing accommodation costs and raising safety concerns, particularly for those returning home late.
The Tanzania Bus Owners Association (TABOA) has supported the directive but called for improvements in security, passenger services and feeder transport.
TABOA Chairman Joseph said consultations should have been conducted before private terminals were relocated.
“We support the use of Magufuli Terminal, but operational challenges must be addressed first,” he said.
He cited concerns over theft, unauthorised touts and interference with ticketing, and urged authorities to strengthen security and regulate access within the terminal.
TABOA also supports electronic ticketing but wants challenges preventing some passengers from accessing the system to be addressed.
Joseph warned that the directive could increase transport costs and safety risks for passengers travelling to areas such as Mbagala, Chanika, Temeke, Kigamboni and Gongo la Mboto, particularly those arriving at night.
“Imagine a bus arriving at 9pm and a female passenger is forced to get off at Magufuli Terminal while her destination is Kigamboni. How will she safely reach her home?” he asked.
TABOA has called for improved connections between the terminal and residential areas through daladala and rapid transit services, especially at night.
“Passengers should not incur additional costs and risks after completing their journeys,” Joseph said.
He reaffirmed the association’s support for the directive, provided infrastructure and services are improved to ensure smooth operations.
