Durban – The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) in KwaZulu-Natal issued an urgent announcement today warning commuters that the North Coast corridor had been severely affected by the Transnet strike, resulting in the immediate suspension of the train service from Durban to oThongathi.
IOL reported today that at least 80% of Transnet staff were expected to down tools following a deadlock in wage negotiations.
The service between Durban and oThongathi resumed in August after a two-year closure as a result of theft and vandalism.
Provincial Prasa spokesperson Zama Nomnganga said the train service was under the control of Transnet.
Nomnganga said the Transnet strike was “crippling the running of trains” on the North Coast corridor.
“Prasa KZN would like to urgently alert all commuters of the temporary suspension of Durban to Tongaat train service as of today until further notice,” he said.
Prasa management apologised to commuters for the suspension of services.
“(Prasa KZN management) will continue to assess the situation to determine when it will be safe to resume service.”
In the IOL report, the United National Transport Union (Untu) said Transnet did not provide a revised offer as a result staff would embark on a stayaway and not a picket as port security and marine services are prohibited from embarking on strike action and could risk potential disciplinary action if they participate.
The offer made by Transnet is a 1.5% increase on guaranteed pay effective from April 1, 2022.
It was also explained that in terms of the offer and as a result of the company’s cash position, the amount due from April 1, 2022 to September 30, 2022 will be paid to employees over three months, at the end of January, February, and March 2023. At the end of October 2022, Transnet will pay the new salary, with the 1.5% increase.
The South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu) said it had informed Transnet that its members would strike on Monday, October 10.