Dart seeks CNG station investors as BRT Phase 2 launch draws closer

Dar es Salaam.  The government is seeking investors to install compressed natural gas (CNG) stations for buses that will operate in the upcoming Phase Two of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system.

The Dar es Salaam Rapid Transit (Dart) Agency issued a call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) from qualified suppliers and investors to provide these facilities.

 The agency’s mandate includes planning, developing and managing an efficient public transport system in Dar es Salaam, with the goals of reducing traffic congestion, promoting sustainability, and improving urban mobility.

In a statement published by local media, Dart invited interested suppliers and investors to submit an EOI for the CNG supply for a fleet of 755 buses that will operate in BRT Phase Two.

The selected supplier will also be responsible for constructing and operating the CNG refuelling infrastructure, including both mother and daughter stations, to ensure smooth and continuous fueling services. “The supplier will enter into direct contracts with bus operators for the CNG supply, while Dart will oversee regulatory compliance, safety standards, and operational effectiveness,” read the statement.

Tanzania is making significant progress in enhancing urban transportation with the acquisition of 250 BRT buses powered by CNG from China.

This initiative aims to accelerate the launch of the much-anticipated second phase of the BRT system, which is a critical component of the nation’s strategy to improve public transport infrastructure.

The new buses will enhance the capacity of the existing network, ensuring efficient, affordable, and eco-friendly mobility for Dar es Salaam’s rapidly growing population. Dr Athuman Kihamia, the Dart chief executive officer, recently told The Citizen that the buses for the BRT Phase Two project are in the final stages of preparation and will be arriving soon.

“If everything goes well, I believe the buses will arrive in the country within two to three months, ready to begin operations. We are introducing CNG buses as part of our commitment to reducing environmental pollution,” he stated.

The BRT Phase Two, which spans 20.3 kilometres from Mbagala to Gerezani, has been constructed at a total cost of $159.32 million by China’s Sinahydro Construction Limited (SCL). The infrastructure has already been handed over to Dart.

The chosen supplier will be responsible for a range of tasks, including ensuring an uninterrupted fuel supply for all 755 buses, building and maintaining all refuelling facilities (such as compressors and storage tanks), and adhering to Tanzania’s environmental, health, and safety regulations.

Additionally, the supplier must implement measures to minimise environmental impact in line with emissions standards and design infrastructure that can accommodate future fleet and station expansions.

Interested suppliers must meet specific qualifications, including a minimum of five years of experience in CNG supply and infrastructure development, demonstrated financial stability through three years of audited financial statements, and a technical proposal detailing timelines, equipment specifications, and quality assurance measures.

Joint ventures are permitted, provided that all legal and technical requirements are met and that the roles of each party are clearly defined.