Rwanda public transport system gears up for new high-tech buses

Rwanda is all set for a new transport system that allows passengers to control their travel times using mobile apps.

According to News Times Rwanda, the new public transport system is expected to be rolled out next year.

“This time we are using ICT to be able to control the drivers. By using GPS, we will see the activities of the buses, and see which one is delaying, and call them to ask them why they are delaying the passengers,” said Emmanuel Asaba Katabarwa, the Head of Transport Department.

According to him, the high-tech bus system will improved route planning, better vehicle mix and introduce a strict, scheduled service.

Timetables are to be displayed on different websites including that of the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Agency (RURA).

“There is a plan to set apart one lane for the public buses so that the normal cars have one lane, and the buses have one lane,” Katabarwa added.

Transport fees for passengers is expected to reduce since operators will be able to operate their routes efficiently.

The system is expected to mark routes based on the volume of the passengers using data from the automated fare collection system.

Routes in Kigali have been divided into primary, secondary and tertiary, according to the number of passengers.

“We are working with partners who are developing apps that will give people information. For example you will be able to know that the bus I need will arrive in next ten minutes,” Eng. Katabarwa said.