Metrobus has reduced services on several off-peak and low-demand routes due to budget constraints and rising fuel costs
By Mapaballo Borotho
Thousands of Johannesburg commuters could face longer waiting times and fewer buses after Metrobus announced service reductions from Monday, 1 June 2026.
The transport operator says years of budget cuts and escalating diesel prices have forced it to scale back services on off-peak and low-demand routes.
Speaking to Kaya 959’s Phemelo Motene, Metrobus Managing Director Dr Bongani Radebe acknowledged the impact the reductions will have on commuters who rely on the service for their daily travel needs.
Radebe apologised for the inconvenience and admitted that the communication regarding the changes should have come sooner to allow passengers enough time to make alternative arrangements.
“We would like to apologise to our commuters that we did not communicate on time and give them an opportunity to make alternative arrangements. Unfortunately, the reality is that we cannot afford to operate the services as we used to,” he said.
He clarified that the affected routes have not been terminated but have instead been scaled back.
“Our routes are still running, but several routes have been affected. The reductions are mainly focused on off-peak hours, particularly in low-demand areas. Unfortunately, not everyone will be protected, but we will continue to provide buses in some communities, especially where there are elderly residents and scholars,” said Radebe.
The service cuts come as South Africans face another fuel price adjustment.
While diesel users will receive some relief at the pumps this month, with wholesale diesel prices decreasing by between R2.62 and R3.25 per litre, petrol motorists are set to pay more from Wednesday, 3 June 2026.
The increase follows government’s decision to begin phasing out temporary fuel levy relief measures that were introduced to cushion consumers from global oil price shocks.
As a result, the price of 95 unleaded petrol will rise to R27.19 per litre at the coast and R28.06 per litre in Gauteng, while 93 unleaded petrol in Gauteng will increase to R27.95 per litre.
For the full conversation with Dr Bongani Radebe, listen to the podcast…
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