Joburg Metrobus to cut services from June 1 as strike threat looms

Joburg Metrobus will reduce services from Monday, 1 June 2026, after warning that financial pressures and a sharp rise in diesel costs have made a temporary adjustment necessary. Commuters across Johannesburg were advised to expect fewer off-peak trips and to check route and timetable changes.

What Metrobus says

According to The Citizen, Metrobus informed commuters that, “due to financial constraints” and the ongoing significant rise in diesel costs, its services will be reduced. The operator said the reductions are intended to protect the service’s sustainability and to prevent further financial instability.

The reductions will focus on reduced off-peak services on selected routes and fewer trips during low-demand periods, particularly during the midday session. Metrobus said it will prioritise peak-hour services and will maintain a reduced operational presence on affected corridors rather than closing routes entirely.

Commuter anger and strike warning

Commuters told The Citizen the cuts have provoked anger among drivers and users. One commuter said the drivers had warned passengers about possible action:

“Our driver from Fourways said to us they’re gonna take us to work Monday morning, but in the afternoon, there might be a strike. We must be prepared, they say, they don’t like what is happening, cut of the buses, they are not happy even with this cancellation of Saturday buses, they are not happy with that.”

Another commuter told The Citizen the suspension of weekend operations harms people who rely on Metrobus for work on Saturdays, saying it is “extremely disappointing and unfair” and that such decisions “directly affect people’s livelihoods and income.” The commuter added that commuters should be properly consulted or given adequate notice and alternatives.

Metrobus response on strike reports

Metrobus spokesperson Tshepo Nathan told The Citizen that management has not been formally notified of strike action by either of its two recognised trade unions.

“Metrobus management has not been notified of intended strike action by any of its two recognised trade unions over routes or any other dispute. Consequently, management is in no position to comment in this regard. Management confirms its notification on the reduction in services and undertakes to continuously find ways to mitigate the impact of these developments and will maintain timeous communication with commuters,”

Metrobus apologised to commuters for the “unavoidable inconvenience caused” and urged patience while it works to mitigate the impact of the reduced services.

What commuters should do

• Check route and timetable changes on the Metrobus website or at depots and terminals.
• Plan for possible delays and reduced off-peak frequency.