Client: Integrated Transport Planning (ITP) Ltd, UK

Main client: World Bank

Year: 2009 – 2010

In November 2009, financed by the World Bank, a Pre-Feasibility Study for the development of a long term integrated Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA) was begun. This high quality public transport study was carried out to address the degradation of traffic situation in this area, such as low public transport reliability and traffic safety, and increases in congestion levels. BRT was chosen as the appropriate system that can take full account of user needs.

The pre-feasibility study was an initial activity to research the feasibility of implementing a BRT system in the GKMA which is planned to be in operation in 2014. As part of the consortium that conducted this study, Balancia was actively involved in examining the potential BRT corridors. There are nine potential BRT corridors that shape a radial network in order to penetrate the city centre. Concerning this issue, laying BRT corridors through the city centre area was hindered by lack of space. Another challenge was the narrow roads that dominate the GKMA. This situation does not support the implementation of segregated bus lanes which needs a certain amount of road space. Therefore, opportunities and threats of this activity were investigated properly.

This study included the comprehensive approach of implementing BRT in the GKMA such as conceptual design, alternative development, financial assessment, and institutional structure. The pre-feasibility study was ready in April 2010 and will be used as the starting point of the feasibility study which will be developed for each proposed BRT corridor.