Upcountry buses to be equipped with CCTV Cameras to enhance safety, combat corruption
What you need to know:
- Latra has already registered 21,000 drivers, with over 3,114 authorised to drive buses and commercial vehicles. Additionally, more than 2,000 drivers have been certified after passing exams conducted by the College of Business Education (CBE)
Kibaha. In a bid to enhance road safety, curb smuggling activities, and combat corruption, upcountry buses in Tanzania will now be equipped with CCTV cameras to monitor driver behaviour and passenger seating arrangements.
The Director of Road Transport at the Land Transport Regulatory Authority (Latra), Mr Johansen Kahatano, said during a meeting in Kibaha yesterday that discussions have been held with bus owners, dealers, and buyers to ensure the installation of CCTV cameras in buses.
He said regulations mandating the installation of specified cameras were in the final drafting stages.
"We are confident that the regulations will be approved by the beginning of the next fiscal year, allowing bus owners to commence implementation," stated Kahatano during a capacity-building seminar for journalists.
Once implemented, the CCTV cameras will enable Latra to monitor driver behaviour and passenger seating.
They will help provide operators with real-time insights through mobile apps. Kahatano emphasised that the presence of CCTV cameras will deter drivers from overloading passengers and reduce incidents of smuggling, crime, and corruption on the roads, ultimately ensuring the safety of passengers and their belongings.
Latra has already registered 21,000 drivers, with over 3,114 authorised to drive buses and commercial vehicles. Additionally, more than 2,000 drivers have been certified after passing exams conducted by the College of Business Education (CBE).
Furthermore, Latra has partnered with Arusha Technical College and Vocational Education Training (Veta) to develop a curriculum for the registration and training of conductors.
This initiative aims to enhance the professionalism of conductors responsible for collecting fares, ensuring passenger safety, comfort, and handling luggage.
Priscus Joseph, Secretary General of the Tanzania Bus Owners Association (Taboa), welcomed the move, stating that bus owners have long awaited such regulations.
He proposed regulations allowing the procurement of buses already equipped with a black box, a vehicle tracking system (VTS), and CCTV cameras to streamline the process and promote fairness among operators.
The Secretary General for the Tanzania Bus Drivers’ Union, Mr Abdalla Lubala, expressed support for the installation of CCTV cameras on buses, citing their potential to reduce oppression and prevent corruption.
Lubala emphasised the need for CCTV cameras on major roads to eliminate false accusations and ensure fairness for drivers.
"As certified drivers, we adhere to all traffic rules and prioritise the safety of passengers. CCTV cameras will not only enhance accountability but also contribute to a safer and more transparent transportation system," stated Lubala.
