Train fire leaves commuters stranded!

TRAIN fire leaves commuters struggling amid financial pressure.

The recent suspension of train services between Nyanga and Nolungile stations has left Cape Town commuters from Khayelitsha and Philippi struggling to find affordable transport options.

This comes after a fire damaged a train at Nolungile station during peak hours on Monday, 10 February.

For many, trains are the most affordable mode of transport, especially for those already feeling the strain of rising living costs.

The sudden disruption has forced commuters to dig deeper into their pockets to pay for alternative transport such as taxis and buses, which are significantly more expensive.

Nokubonga Ndlela (36), shared her harrowing experience on the train when the fire broke out.

"We were shocked and ran for our lives. But now, we're even more worried about the cost of transport. I have a monthly train ticket, and now I must pay extra for taxis," she said.

Dalton Ndongeni, a public transport activist, raised concern over the financial burden placed on commuters.

"Many people rely on trains as they're affordable. With this sudden suspension, commuters are forced to spend money they didn't plan for, and it's the middle of the month when money is tight.

"Metrorail should have stepped in to provide alternative transport, especially since most passengers have already paid for monthly tickets," he said.

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Siyabulela Tom, another commuter, highlighted the unfairness of the situation, questioning the termination of services.

"People in Philippi and Mandalay are also affected, and now we have to spend more on transport we didn't budget for," he said.

Metrorail spokeswoman Zino Mihi apologised for the disruption.

She said a faulty overhead cable caused the fire.

"Around 4.50pm, the People's Train #9915 was damaged by the contact wire at Nolungile station. Fortunately, no passengers or crew were harmed. Services are expected to resume within two days."