Hassan Magulumali
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to continuing the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) workshop construction project in the Simu 2000 area of Ubungo, Dar es Salaam. The project, already in its advanced stages, will proceed with measures to minimize disruption to the traders’ activities.
The government’s statement comes on the heels of protests by petty traders, known locally as “machinga,” who have been demanding the suspension of the project managed by Dar es Salaam Rapid Transit (DART). The controversy escalated when the Ubungo Municipal Council announced on July 4, 2024, that it would hand over the project site to DART. This decision led to a series of strikes by traders on July 7, 2024.
In response to the unrest, Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila has committed to meeting with the traders to address their concerns. Speaking on Saturday, July 13, 2024, in the Simu 2000 area, Mr. Chalamila emphasized that suspending the project was not a viable option due to its advanced progress. He urged the traders to provide input on how the project could be executed without significantly impacting their daily business operations.
Read More: Government Directive on DART: Impending Chaos for Dar Residents
The BRT project is seen as a crucial development for Dar es Salaam, aiming to enhance the city’s public transportation infrastructure and alleviate traffic congestion. However, the resistance from traders highlights the challenges of balancing urban development with the livelihoods of local communities.
Commissioner Chalamila’s call for collaboration suggests a potential path forward, where the government and traders can work together to find a solution that accommodates both the project’s progress and the traders’ need to continue their businesses without major disruptions. This cooperative approach could serve as a model for addressing similar conflicts in other areas of the city undergoing development.
As the dialogue between the government and traders continues, the outcome will likely set a precedent for future urban development projects in Dar es Salaam, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder engagement and community involvement in the planning and execution of major infrastructure projects.
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