South Africa: Commuter rail service suspend in KwaZulu-Natal Sep. 24

Event

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) announced on Monday, September 24, that it has indefinitely suspended operations in KwaZulu-Natal province. According to Prasa, the company decided to cease all service throughout the province after angry commuters set four cars on fire and damaged a ticket office on September 21 in Umlazi (south of Durban). Police officials said that over 1000 people started vandalizing Prasa property over late trains. A Prasa spokesperson claims that drivers and staff have frequently been assaulted and intimidated in recent years. As of Tuesday, September 25, it is unclear when Prasa service will resume in KwaZulu-Natal. Protests against Prasa’s decision are also possible throughout the province in the coming days.

Advice

Individuals in KwaZulu-Natal province are advised to monitor the situation, consider using alternative modes of transportation, and avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution.