A burning train was evacuated this morning, Wednesday May 30, at Ottery station.
PRASA spokesperson Riana Scott confirmed at about 8.50 a fire was reported on a Cape Flats Cape-Town bound train injuring two people. Two carriages were gutted.
Fortunately train crew were able to uncouple the two burning carriages and contain the damage.
Emergency services and the fire brigade were on the scene.
The Cape Flats line was temporarily suspended to clear the line and buses were requested to operate between Wetton and Ottery stations.
The cause of the fire is being investigated but it is believed the fire was started deliberately.
On Tuesday May 22 passengers a train Fishoek-bound were also evacuated at Retreat station. Four carriages were damaged in the fire.
After some investigation it was found the fire at Retreat station was also started deliberately.
Regional manager Richard Walker condemned the destruction of trains.
“Torching trains is intentional sabotage of state assets and directly impacts on the ability of hard working commuters to affordably travel between home and work. It is a senseless and selfish act which could have led to injuries or even loss of life,” said Mr Walker.
Anyone with information or footage of the event is requested to provide this to police. All reports will be investigated and treated in strictest confidence. Rewards of up to R25 000 are payable for information leading to successful convictions.