Abstract
The purpose of this assignment is to measure the extent that Rea Vaya Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system has delivered
transport services to commuters on the phase 1A route connecting Soweto (Thokoza Park station) and Johannesburg
Central Business District (CBD) (Ellispark station). Five service quality dimensions were used to measure the level
of service provided by Rea Vaya namely tangibles, empathy, assurance, responsiveness and reliability.
Positivism was used as the research philosophy, which is a scientific method that tests theories using structured and
measurable methods such as a structured questionnaire and observations. Quantitative data was collected for this
research, in a form of a structured questionnaire and observation. 100 questionnaires were issued to commuters to
complete at Thokoza park station and all 100 were collected, added to this, a stopwatch was used to measure time
frequencies between bus arrivals. Excel software was used to analyse the data collected into meaningful information.
This research indicates that of the five service quality dimensions only two dimensions are totally satisfied namely
empathy and tangibles. The other three dimensions namely assurance, reliability and responsiveness were partially
satisfied. Therefore, Rea Vaya management should make attempts in improving the element of partially satisfied
dimensions. More specifically, management needs to empower officials at the stations with authority to make
decisions regarding commuter grievances, better scheduling methods to solve overcrowding during peak periods and
information devices both busses and stations needs to be maintained and kept serviceable.
Currently Rea Vaya ridership has decreased from 35 000 commuters daily in 2010 to 16 000 commuters daily showing
a decline in ridership overtime. This paints a picture that indicates that the commuters are not satisfied with the service
provided by Rea Vaya resulting in using alternative transport modes. When the Rea Vaya managers fix the abovementioned
findings, it is expected that the ridership should gradually increase, perhaps to even above planned carrying
capacity of 75 000 commuters daily.