GIWUSA Demands Immediate Reversal of Metrorail Fare Increases

image: Prasa/X

by Kelebogile Matlou

The General Industries Workers Union of South Africa (GIWUSA) is calling for the immediate reversal of Metrorail’s planned fare increases, which are scheduled to take effect on 1 August 2025.

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) recently announced that commuters will have to dig deeper into their pockets, with single tickets set to increase by R2.50, and return tickets expected to rise by between R5.50 and R6, depending on the distance travelled. GIWUSA president Mametlwe Sebei has strongly criticised the fare hikes, describing them as savage and unaffordable for the working class.

“These increases range from a savage 33% to 43%. Daily tickets will increase by R2.50, which means moving from R7.50 to R10 for single tickets. Return tickets will go up from R14 to R20. Weekly tickets will rise from R16 to R25, and monthly tickets will increase by more than R100,” said Sebei.

image: Prasa/ X

He said that the fare increases amount to criminal extortion of the working class and represent another blow from the Government of National Unity (GNU) on the living standards of ordinary South Africans. Sebei further accused government of betraying its promises to deliver affordable and sustainable public transport, which he said should be a reliable alternative to deadly pollution, accidents, and chaos on the roads.

GIWUSA has urged PRASA and the government to reconsider the decision and find more equitable solutions that do not burden the working poor.