Challenges affecting the implementation and sustainability of BRT system in South Africa: A case of Tshwane

Abstract

This study investigated issues affecting the implementation and sustainability of BRT system in South Africa through an intensive case study of A Re Yeng in Tshwane. Through a quantitative research design with secondary data, the study compared the ridership levels, government subsidies, operating expenses, and revenue streams from 2023 to 2025. Comparative analyses with other BRT systems such as Cape Town's MyCiTi revealed that A Re Yeng has much lower ridership (48,000 daily passengers) and less subsidy support but with the highest number of financial losses. Inferential statistical models were applied in order to determine the underlying trends between the main operational parameters with a perspective to determining the impact of decreasing ridership, increasing fuel and maintenance costs, and decreasing subsidies on long-term sustainability. The outcomes demonstrate an increasing financial shortfall of over R2 billion in operating cost by 2026 owing to increasing cost pressures and decreasing passenger fare revenue. It is suggested that targeted policy reforms, operational efficiencies, and diversification of financing options should be implemented. It also calls for additional quantitatively more detailed studies to guide evidence-based planning and guarantee South Africa's sustainable urban mobility.