The latest fuel price hikes has prompted a total shutdown of major routes in Mbombela, Mpumalanga.
Commuters in various townships in the lowveld were left stranded this morning with no mode of transportation as busses and taxis were not operational.
Roads were blockaded with trucks and debris, also denying access to motorists who were using private vehicles to go to work.
Inaccessible roads included the N4 between Matsulu and Kanyamazane, the R538 in Karino, and some busiest roads in the CBD.
“The road closure is an inconvenience but when we look at the bigger picture, I totally understand the anger behind this protest action. The cost of living is already high, and now the petrol price has once again increased, government needs to reconsider these prices,” said Bonginkosi Nkosi, who lives in Matsulu.
The price of petrol has increased by up to a whopping R2.57c, while the price of diesel has increased by at least R2.30c.
Taxi operators in Matsulu were also up in arms, in full support of this total shutdown.
Sibusiso Mbazima said they will be forced to increase taxi fares, which is seen as unfair due to it being so soon after the last increase earlier this year.
“If we do not voice out our frustrations, taking a taxi from Matsulu to town will cost up to R50, which is unrealistic for the average consumer who is living from hand to mouth,” said Mbazima.
Community members around Mbombela, Barberton, Matsulu, Ngodini and surrounding areas joined the protest, saying a petrol price increase triggers food price increases.
Police spokesperson Brig Selvy Mohlala said 37 people have been arrested.
“The situation was calm earlier in the day, but now we are everywhere as protesters are moving one place to the other. As we speak, we have arrested 37 people in connection with public violence and public disturbances.
“We are calling for the public to he vigilant and not travel to town as it's not safe for now. People who are on the move coming to Nelspruit should have a reliable transport,” said Mohlala.
Late yesterday, roads were still blockaded with burning tyres and debris.
Topstar taxi association chairperson Johan Mavundla said they were struggling, saying if the price of petrol does not go down, the industry will collapse. “This is hard for us, remember last week we were talking about fare price increments which we haven't done as yet, and now the petrol price goes up with more than R2.
“We have no choice but to rally behind them [commuters] because we know this will collapse our business. Taxis go up and down the roads for the whole day; we are the most petrol buyers as we ferry passengers ... so this is hitting us hard,” said Mavundla.
He said he was not sure if the strike would continue on Thursday.
Shops and malls were closed as staff was not able to get to work.
Scelo Mokoena from Ngodini said: “Our government doesn't care about us, they know the high unemployment rate of this country and they keep on increasing petrol price which will hit us hard as the unemployed because that will mean food prices are increasing too.”
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