Safety evaluation of Dar Es Salaam Bus Rapid Transit facilities in accommodating non-motorists: A behavior study

Abstract

The Dar es Salaam Bus Rapid Transit (DART) became operational in 2016, aiming to mitigate traffic congestion and enhance public transportation in the rapidly growing city of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. However, integrating BRT infrastructure into existing urban environments raises critical safety concerns, particularly for non-motorists, including pedestrians and cyclists. This study evaluates the safety of DART infrastructures in accommodating non-motorized users, identifying risks and mitigation strategies to enhance their safety and accessibility. Using interviews, Pedestrian Behavior Scale (PBS), and observation survey approaches, the study examines four specific hotspot locations along the BRT corridor, Msimbazi A, Msimbazi B, Kisutu, and Ubungo, to collect the field data. A total of 182 participants responded to PBS, with results showing behaviors needing more attention are violations, such as crossing in undesignated areas for convenience, and lapses due to low attention, such as following other people crossing without paying attention. Also, binary logistics analysis using 1444 observed non-motorists showed non-motorist compliance is influenced by age, type of crosswalk, fence, refuge islands, number of lanes, approaching traffic, and land use, while gender showed no significant influence. Integrating interview responses, observed behaviors, and logistic regression results provides a comprehensive understanding of pedestrian behaviors and their safety implications. Based on these insights, targeted intervention measures such as proper design and improved mass education on traffic safety can significantly enhance pedestrian safety, reduce risky behaviors, and promote positive behaviors across different locations.