The HOT Seat

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Today I literally got the “hot seat”. It’s just a hump actually, that sticks out behind the front seat of the Dala Dala. I don’t know how the kids do it. It’s where they usually have to sit when adults need a seat on the bus. Today, I sat there because the other option was---Me standing or truthfully bending, (‘cause you gotta be under 5’4” to stand upright in there) on the entire ride to Muhimbili on a dirt road that made New Orleans potholes look like smoorth sailing. The bus was jammed pack. It have seats for 15 but there were 21 people already in and they were stopping to pick up more.

This is the primary mode of public transportation around Dar. Unfortunately , since they run the streets, they make the rules. If the streets are full, as the are at rush hour, many buses often ride along the sidewalk. If you happen to be walking, just jumped back, ‘cause they won’t stop for you unless you’re bigger. Just last night I was nearly hit by one, but jumped back just in time.

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Photos

The dala dala
Here the "dala dala' is waiting for people to jump in. Sometimes you literally have to jump in. Ususally though that's only for the boys.

In front of the YWCA at Posta In Dar
The streets busy with 'Dala dala's'

Comments

[Bill and Nancy]

Rule of the road
They won't move, stop, of budge unless you are bigger is also one of the few rules of the road I have figured out in China.

[Taras trip]

Be careful
Working at the hospital, I've seen all kinds injuried by these buses. Men, women, young and old have come through with various injuries from abrasions to amputations. So WALK defensely. You have to make it back home too!