More than 60 000 Soweto train commuters left stranded following cable theft
Metrorail management advices commuters, where possible, to consider using other modes of transport as an alternative.
Metrorail train service operations were disrupted this morning because of the overhead catenary wires being cut and stolen.
Catenary wires are a system of overhead wires used to supply electricity to a locomotive. The wires were stolen between Dube and Ikhwezi train station on both the up and down lines.
The theft of the wires resulted in Metrorail train service operations in the Naledi corridor being disrupted.
According to Goodman Matampi, acting provincial manager of Gauteng Metrorail, “This disruption will negatively affect more than 60 000 (sixty thousand) train commuters’ traveling experience in Naledi, New Canada and the Kazerne West corridor which are our key operational areas in Soweto.”
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Matampi said criminals have developed a trend of targeting and stealing railway wires forgetting that this is likely to affect thousands of commuters.
“Of great concern is the growing trend by criminals now targeting both lines to make sure the railway system is paralyzed for peak period operations.
“We call on support from local government and law enforcement agencies to help us tighten all efforts in fighting this criminality which may soon lead to the collapse of the railway services and negatively affect the economy of the province,” said Matampi.
The railway operator also stated that loyal monthly and weekly ticket holders would be transported by bus as an alternative form of transport between New Canada and Naledi stations.
Metrorail technicians are at the affected areas assessing damages with a view to start replacing the stolen cables.
Metrorail management said it sincerely apologises for the inconvenience caused and pleads with commuters and employers to be patient as Metrorail technicians are working around the clock to replace the stolen cables.
Commuters are urged to report any criminal behaviour witnessed within its operational areas to Protection Services officials at stations and nearby police stations.
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