Evaluating Factors Affecting Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Efficiency in Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam's Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, locally known as Mabasi ya Mwendokasi, started operations on 10 May 2016 to address the city's escalating traffic congestion and mobility challenges, stemming from rapid urbanization and population growth. Spanning approximately 21.1 km with 29 stations and operated by around 210 Golden Dragon buses. Despite early gains, significant disparities in access and ongoing operational challenges continue to raise serious concerns about Dar BRT System. The aimed at evaluating factors which affect BRT efficiency in Dar es salaam by determine the impact of current BRT infrastructure, determine the role of operational management practices of BRT and examine the impact of institutional support and public-private partnerships in BRT services. To comprehensively address the research questions, the study adopted mixed method research design employing these data collection tools Questioners, Interview, Observation and Literature Reviews. Data were analysed using thematic analysis and descriptive statistics for qualitative insight and quantitative insight respectively. Analysis yielded different factors infrastructure, bus frequencies, maintenance and Partnership with private sectors have strong relation to the efficiency of BRT system in Dar es salaam. Thematic analysis revealed that dedicated lanes are sometimes invaded by unauthorised vehicles reducing efficiency and in danger life of passengers, the introduction of dedicated lanes has reduced travel times hence increasing efficiency, also many BRT buses get Breakdown during rainy season which diminish operational efficiency, through Public-private partnership efficiency is increased through fleet expansion funds allocation and risk sharing. The study recommended that the infrastructure enhancement and regular maintenance, close management of fare and revenue collection and strong Public-private partnership significantly improve efficiency by reducing waiting time at station, reliability and increase ridership.