Failing rail system a major threat to local economy

1 August 2018

THE failing commuter rail system in Cape Town had become a major threat to the local economy and it was now time for drastic measures, says the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

“There is a pattern to the arson attacks on trains and we musk as why and who is behind it,” said Ms Janine Myburgh, President of the Chamber. “Who can possibly gain from this destruction? We need criminal intelligence so that we can go after the organisers and chop off the head of this monster.”

Ms Myburgh said there should be many people who were in a position to provide vital information. “They may be passengers, union members or other criminals. We don’t know but we must start pressing for their information,” Ms Myburgh said.

“We also need to talk to people like the scrap merchants because they may well have vital information. They know and understand the scrap industry and how it works so they are the people most likely to have useful information. I appeal to them to come forward and help us save our trains.”

Earlier this year the Cape Chamber conducted a survey of its members to find out how the ongoing crisis was affecting business. More than 86% of respondents said the situation threatened the sustainability of their businesses. Since then the situation has got worse and losses to the local economy must run to many million rands a month.

The estimated costs of the recent attacks ranges between R30m and R50m

Ms Myburgh said there were also human costs. “Conditions on Metrorail trains have become a nightmare and employers tell of staff arriving at work in tears and leaving for home with fear in their eyes.”

Anybody with information about the fires should call the Railway Police on 0214434325.

Issued by Dean Le Grange, Media and Digital Co-ordinator, Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry