EC Transport Department on high alert amid protesting scholar transport operators
Parts of the N2 highway in the Buffalo City Metro were brought to a standstill on Thursday morning, as operators took to the streets demanding to be paid.
Parents have been blocking the entrance to Sikhoba Nombewu Technical School in Cofimvaba since 24 January, after learners from St Marks and Qamata villages were left stranded. Picture: Nombulelo Damba-Hendrik/GroundUp
JOHANNESBURG - The Department of Transport in the Eastern Cape is on high alert following scholar transport protests over unpaid funds to operators.
Parts of the N2 highway in the Buffalo City Metro were brought to a standstill on Thursday morning, as operators took to the streets demanding to be paid.
They blockaded roads claiming their vehicles are under the threat of being repossessed.
Teaching and learning had to be suspended at several East London schools due to the shutdown.
Department spokesperson Unathi Binqose says the non-payment is due to technical glitches and some operators’ refusal to sign contracts.
He added the department remains on high alert.
"We do expect that things will flare up again in the evening, but we will remain extra vigilant with more boots on the ground for any eventuality."
Binqose has assured the department is working to settle outstanding fees by 15 May.