The Impact of Vandalism on Tanzania’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) System: A Case Study of the October 29th Unrest
The recent unrest in Tanzania has had a significant impact on the country’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, with the government facing a potential revenue loss of up to Sh200 million by November 20, 2025. The vandalism of key infrastructure, including filling stations, BRT stations, and buses, has disrupted operations and strained the system’s ability to function effectively.
The Morogoro Road (Phase One) and Kilwa Road (Phase Two) corridors were particularly affected. The former, operated by Usafiri Dar es Salaam Rapid Transit (Udart), suffered extensive damage, with nearly all stations between Magomeni and Kimara vandalized. The feeder route from Mbezi Mwisho to Kibaha also incurred significant losses, with all ticketing booths destroyed. The government’s revenue stream from infrastructure usage fees, which covered the use of dedicated BRT lanes, stations, and smart gates, has been disrupted.
Phase One’s restoration efforts are underway, with contractors being engaged to accelerate repairs. The buses burned during the unrest were not operational due to mechanical issues and have since been removed. The government is also assessing the damage and identifying those who suffered losses during the unrest.
Despite the ongoing repairs, Phase Two operations along the Mbagala-city centre corridor resumed on November 20, 2025, following a directive by the Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner. Commuters welcomed the resumption, as it significantly reduced transport costs and eased travel challenges. The Mbagala service, launched in October 2025, had operated for only 17 days before the unrest. The government is urging Tanzanians to put aside anger and work together to rebuild the nation.
In the meantime, the Land Transport Regulatory Authority (Latra) has issued permits for 150 new commuter buses to ease congestion along the Morogoro Road corridor while Phase One remains suspended. Latra has also approved a transitional fare of Sh1,000 for Phase Two, provided the operator continues to improve service quality and ensure smooth passenger flow. Dart has reminded all passengers that Smart Cards or the Mwendokasi app are mandatory for cashless payment, warning that commuters without the required platforms will not be allowed to board.
The vandalism of the BRT system has highlighted the need for improved security measures and infrastructure protection. The government must work to ensure that such incidents do not occur again, as the BRT system plays a crucial role in the country’s transportation and economic development.