THE contractor building the third phase of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT-3) has been uged to work around the clock to ensure the project is completed and operational by February next year as stipulated in the contract.

Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila made the call in the city at the weekend during his visit to inspect various projects in Ilala District.

The BRT-3 project, spanning 23 kilometers from Posta in the city center through Tazara to Gongo la Mboto, is being constructed by the Chinese firm M/S Sinohydro Corporation Limited. 

With the rainy season approaching, Chalamila urged the contractor to expedite work and establish measures to maintain progress despite adverse weather. 

“I’ve come here and seen you working at night. I want you to keep this momentum. No excuses, I expect this road to be completed on time so that residents can benefit from it and ease congestion,” he said.

He also commended engineers at the Tanzania National Roads Agency (Tanroads) for their consistent day-and-night supervision of contractors, encouraging them to ensure timely completion and adherence to construction standards outlined in the contract.

“I will continue to make unannounced visits to check if night work is a regular practice and not just because you knew I was coming. Tanroads engineers must ensure that the construction complies with standards as billions are being invested in this project,” he added.

Tanroads BRT-3 project manager Frank Mbilinyi assured Chalamila that the project is on track to be completed on time, with most of the road expected to be finished by December this year and fully operational by February 2025. 

"Regional Commissioner, let me assure you that the contractor is progressing well. Our government engineers work closely with them to ensure funds are disbursed on time to prevent delays,” Mbilinyi stated.

Chalamila also inspected BRT-4 route from Mwenge to Tegeta Dawasa, covering 15.63 kilometers currently under construction by M/S Shandong Luqiao Group Co Ltd. He advised the contractor to increase workers to expedite work before the rainy season to minimise the risk of delays.

“Ensure you follow every detail in the construction contract. If more workers are needed, add them to work day and night. I’m glad to see you on-site tonight but let it not be just because you heard I was coming,” he said.