NEWSFLASH: Warning of possible truck strike in Pretoria
“The routes have not been confirmed, but we expect main routes to and from the city might be affected.”
Pretoria motorists might be subjected to major disruptions including significant traffic congestion, if a proposed nation-wide truck strike starts this week.
The strike was part of a possible mass truck stoppage that was due to kick off on Sunday, according to Tshwane acting roads and transport MMC alderman Karen Meyer.
Meyer, who is also MMC for community safety and emergency services in Tshwane, urged residents to take the necessary precautions when planning their trips in the coming week.
“I have been in contact with provincial law enforcement to be prepared for any eventuality that might affect the metro,” she said.
“I urge residents to be alert on the roads as recent strikes and protest action have been quite disruptive.”
Meyer said there will be constant communication to deal with any crime should the strike proceed.
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“As the metro, we cannot confirm whether the intended strike and protest action will take place or how long it will last,” she said.
“We rely heavily on the national joint operational and intelligence structures, but will ensure we keep Tshwane residents updated on any developments.”
Meyer could not confirm which routes within the metro might be affected.
“The routes have not been confirmed but we expect main routes to and from the city might be affected,” she said.
Meanwhile, the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu) has distanced itself from the strike, saying it did not know who was calling for it.
“None of the legitimate unions within the national bargaining council for road freight and logistics industry have called for [the strike],” said Satawu spokesperson Zanele Sabela.
“We are concerned for the safety of truck drivers and urge trucking companies to be cautious because in the past strikes called by faceless people have often resulted in gruesome attacks on truck drivers with trucks they drive being set alight.”
Sabela said the union supported all efforts by police to stamp out attacks on the country’s trucking industry, which are tantamount to economic sabotage.
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