Tanzania’s land transport regulator issues stern warning to bus operators

Dar es Salaam. The Land Transport Regulatory Authority (Latra) has issued a strong warning to upcountry bus operators, threatening to ban all night-time travel due to ongoing violations of transport regulations.

In a recent directive, Latra has given Super Feo, Abood, and BM buses a seven-day ultimatum to correct their practices or face license suspension.

Additionally, the license of Katarama buses has been suspended for tampering with the Vehicle Tracking System (VTS).

This action is aimed at improving passenger safety and ensuring adherence to established guidelines following increasing concerns over the management and safety of late-night bus services.

Latra Director General Habibu Suluo announced the measures during a press conference on Thursday, September 12, 2024. He stated that, effective September 13, 2024, Katarama buses will be prohibited from operating until police investigations are concluded.

“We had initially planned to suspend all night-time bus services, but we are starting with Katarama due to repeated warnings and previous suspensions. Their license will remain suspended until further notice,” Suluo said.

Suluo explained that prior to being allowed to operate at night, bus operators had agreed to seven key conditions, including connecting to the VTS, having drivers take shifts on long journeys, and ensuring proper registration and identification of drivers.

The conditions also mandated the appointment of a designated officer to monitor bus operations, provide accurate passenger information, and enforce luggage identification.

Violations of these conditions have prompted Latra to take decisive action. “Latra is committed to safeguarding Tanzanians, and we will not tolerate breaches of these essential conditions,” Suluo emphasized.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Nassoro Sisiwaya from the Traffic Unit will oversee the investigation into Katarama’s operations.

“We will pursue a criminal case in court against those found violating the law,” Sisiwaya noted.

The Chairman for the Tanzania Bus Owners Association (Taboa), Mr Abdalla Mohamed, commended Latra for engaging with bus operators before imposing penalties.

“This shows that Latra is committed to working with operators to improve the industry,” Mohamed said.

He urged all bus operators to adhere to Latra’s regulations, acknowledging that the authority has the power to enforce, suspend, or disqualify operations as needed.

“The government has empowered Latra to take these actions, and it has chosen to address the issues through dialogue and correction before resorting to further punitive measures,” Mohamed added.

The move reflects Latra’s commitment to enhancing safety and compliance in the transport sector, particularly for late-night bus services.