Metrorail workers go on strike

Thousands of Transnet employees are expected to embark on a series of strikes on Monday that could cripple public transportation and the country’s ports. This is likely to cost millions of rands in lost exports and leave thousands of commuters stranded. Four unions have called for the strikes following failed negotiations with Transnet over the proposal to restructure operations. Transnet spokesperson John Dludlu says the company is disappointed by the unions’ decision to go on strike. General secretary of SATAWU, Randal Howard, says that up to 500-thousand workers will support the strike, with Spoornet and Metrorail services likely to be disrupted.