Simu2000 bus terminal closed to pave way for BRT depot construction

Dar es Salaam. The Simu2000 bus terminal in the Ubungo area was closed today, September 14, 2024, to make way for the construction of a depot for the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system.

This depot is part of the BRT's fourth phase.

Ms Mary Mwakyosi, the Head of Trade, Industry, and Investment at the Ubungo Municipal Council, confirmed the closure.

Earlier on July 8, 2024, traders at the station protested the plan to turn the market area into a bus depot. However, on July 13, Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila met with the traders to explain the benefits of the project and assured them that suitable arrangements would be made to support their businesses during construction.

The fourth phase of the BRT project will involve buses plying the Tegeta and Mwenge to Ubungo via Sam Nujoma Road. The depot is expected to be completed by March 2025.

At the site, preparations for the closure were observed, including the placement of red tape at the station’s entry and exit gates. There have also been changes in how vehicles enter and leave the station.

Work is ongoing to set up a construction camp and bring in materials for the contractor to build the depot. Armed police officers were at the site, providing security.

Notices signed by the Ubungo Municipal Director were posted around the station, informing the public of the suspension of services.

Ms Mwakyosi stated that traders had already been notified about the closure, and efforts are being made to relocate them to other areas within the market.

“There are fewer than 15 traders with stalls at the station, and they will be moved to the market, where 800 stalls are planned to be built as part of the project. We also have other previously unused areas," she said.

“Other traders, such as those selling peanuts or using tables and umbrellas, will also be given space,” Ms Mwakyosi added.

Mr Mohammed Kuganda, the Transport Planning Manager for the Dar Rapid Transit Agency (DART), said daladala minibuses will be relocated outside the station. One side of the station’s entrance road will be used for parking, and vehicles exiting the station will use the roundabout at the end of the market.

He also mentioned that the space for traders has been increased from 6,000 to 11,900 square meters, ensuring that everyone will have a place to run their business.

“We know there will be challenges during construction, but we are ready to handle them. After all, we are building the 800 stalls,” Mr Kuganda said.

While some traders confirmed they had been informed about the project, others claimed they were unaware.

A representative of the traders, Mr Musa Mbwani, said they were involved in all meetings and suggested that those complaining had other agendas.

Trader Samwel Marite said they saw the notice on September 13 and were told to vacate the next day without preparation or clear instructions on where to go.

“I have a stall that I built for Sh1.3 million, and the goods inside are worth at least Sh300,000. Now they’re telling me to leave today, but where will I go? I haven’t been given a new space. How is my family supposed to survive?” he asked.

A commuter bus driver, Mr Juma Mohammed, a driver operating between Temeke and Simu2000, said they don’t have a proper parking space and are unsure why the closure was rushed without proper planning.

Mr Jumanne Patrick, leader of the daladala drivers, confirmed the issue, explaining that the station was supposed to close at 6 p.m. on September 13, but due to the lack of proper parking arrangements outside, they requested permission to continue using the station today while closely monitoring vehicle flow.