Truckers strike could see an economic crisis develop

By Mishkah Anthony
12 April 2009

The SA Fuel Retailers Association has warned that should the road freight industry’s strike continue for more than a week, the country’s economy could find itself in a crisis.

The striking drivers called the action off for the weekend, but vowed to increase their strike action again on Tuesday.

FTA spokesperson Reggie Sibiya says had it not been for the weekend relief, South Africa would already have been facing a crisis. He says, however, that motorists returning home after the weekend need not worry as oil companies would prioritise deliveries to the national routes

Meanwhile Petrol stations across Johannesburg have called on government to intervene in the ongoing dispute with striking truck drivers.

Officials claimed that townships have been the hardest hit as drivers were afraid to deliver fuel because of intimidation.

One petrol attendant in Newtown told media that after midday yesterday they were only left with diesel.