A major truck shutdown is expected to disrupt several routes on Monday, 20 May 2024, as tensions rise over employment practices in the transport sector.
UPDATE: ATDF-SA has temporarily suspended Monday’s planned shutdown following talks with the departments of Home Affairs and Labour. “There is a plan from today [Monday] that will be put into place, so we have temporarily suspended,” the truckers’ group wrote in a statement.
Truck shutdown expected on Monday, 20 May 2024
The All Truck Drivers Forum and Allied South Africa (ATDF-SA) has announced a planned protest and shutdown on Monday, 20 May 2024.
This action follows ongoing disputes with the Department of Labour and Employment (DOEL) regarding allegations that certain transport companies are employing foreign nationals without adhering to required legal processes.
The ATDF-SA has expressed dissatisfaction with the DOEL’s lack of confirmation or assurance to investigate these allegations, leading to the decision to proceed with the protest.
The ATDF-SA leadership has indicated that while they intend for the protest to be peaceful, they cannot guarantee that all participants will refrain from violence or unlawful acts.
Concerns have been raised about potential disruptions and safety risks, and the leadership has deferred all queries back to the circulated notice without confirming or denying the possibility of a prolonged protest period or date changes.
Transport companies and drivers have been advised to exercise heightened caution on Monday, 20 May 2024.
The decision to operate or suspend operations remains at the discretion of individual companies, but the potential for disruptions necessitates careful planning and vigilance.
These routes could be affected
The truck shutdown is expected to impact several key routes known as traditional “ATDF-SA hotspots.” These include:
- N3 Highway: This major route connecting Johannesburg and Durban is likely to experience significant disruptions. The N3 is a critical corridor for freight transport, and any blockades or protests along this route could lead to substantial delays and logistical challenges.
- Mpumalanga: The province, known for its industrial and agricultural activities, may also see disruptions. Key routes within Mpumalanga, especially those used for transporting goods to and from neighbouring provinces, could be affected.
- R25 Route: This route, connecting Gauteng and Mpumalanga, is another potential hotspot. The R25 is frequently used by trucks transporting goods between major economic hubs, making it a strategic target for the protest.
Transport companies have been urged to inform their drivers and schedulers to remain on high alert.
Drivers are also advised to document any acts of violence or unlawful behaviour, such as the taking of keys or the blocking of roads, but only if it is safe to do so.