In line with the latest news from Senegal, today we are interested in the trials of the rapid transit buses (BRT) which have recently started in Dakar. This new mode of transport aims to relieve congestion in the Senegalese capital and improve urban mobility by allowing the transport of up to 300,000 passengers per day.
The tests in question are currently in progress, with a first stage of static and gauge tests. This is to ensure that the buses adapt correctly to the stations still under construction and to check that they comply with height and width standards. According to Thierno Birahim AW, Managing Director of the Sustainable Urban Transport Executive Council, these static tests will be followed by dynamic tests which will include interactions with general traffic.
Regarding the progress of the project, the infrastructure works are already 85% complete and 70% of the planned buses have been delivered. The rest of the fleet should be available by November. However, there are still challenges, including the presence of street vendors in BRT-only lanes. To remedy this, road clearance operations have been launched, and local authorities have asked street vendors to immediately free up spaces reserved for public transport.
Due to the delays caused by the June protests and the damage suffered by some stations, the full commissioning of the BRT is scheduled for December 2023.
This rapid and electric public transport initiative is an important step to improve mobility in the Senegalese capital. It will help reduce road congestion and provide a more efficient alternative to the citizens of Dakar. With its 23 stations and its fleet of 150 vehicles, the BRT will become a key element of the Senegalese urban landscape and will facilitate the daily travel of thousands of people.
In conclusion, the rapid transit bus (BRT) trials in Dakar are underway, marking a significant step towards improving mobility and decongesting the Senegalese capital. With the completion of infrastructure works and the gradual arrival of buses, the BRT will soon become a reality for the inhabitants of Dakar, offering an efficient, fast and environmentally friendly transport solution