METRORAIL has shut down all central train services in Cape Town until further notice.
The rail service is offering a R25 000 reward for information leading to the conviction of vandals who destroy infrastructure.
No trains can run on the lines between Chris Hani and Kapteinsklip and Bishop Lavis . Stations are closed and no tickets are on sale.
Regional manager Richard Walker said the rate of vandalism outstrips the rate of repairs.
“Vandals targeted mini substations, cables and backup batteries over the weekend, leaving us no choice but to suspend services,” said Walker.
“Teams will be sent in under armed escort to assess the situation before any attempt at recovering service is possible.”
Commuters on the central line are advised to find alternative transport as there are no buses.
“We bought tickets for the month. I can’t use a bus because I don’t have the money,” said Mandla Dulase (45) from Langa.
On Sunday, as Northern Line trains were delayed for over an hour, commuters on their way to church and work complained to Daily Sun.
Moses Ngulube (56) from Langa was supposed to go to Mbekweni for a big Sunday service.
“They used to give us buses but not this time. We couldn’t get to church. We were deprived of our chance to worship God because of Metrorail.”
Walker called on the police to take strong action against thugs and illegal scrap dealers.
“A reward of up to R25 000 is offered for information leading to conviction. Full anonymity is guaranteed,” said Walker.
Metrorail spokeswoman Riana Scott said: “Monthly and weekly ticket-holders can use their tickets on Golden Arrow buses.”
