Joburg M1, M2 reopened after Samwu wage protest
Thousands of workers affiliated with the South African Municipal Workers Union (Samwu) dispersed after staging a protest on the M1 highway in Braamfontein on Thursday.
Workers downed tools and blocked one of the city's busiest roads due to a wage dispute.
Nationally, the trade union is demanding an 8% wage increase, including an R15,000 minimum wage, 70% medical aid contributions by the employer and an R3,000 a month housing allowance.
Johannesburg metro police spokesperson Xolani Fihla said the roads were reopened in the afternoon.
"Protesting City of Johannesburg employees affiliated with Samwu have dispersed. Reports indicate that an agreement was reached for them to disperse, though they have indicated that they will return tomorrow.
"Currently, both the M2 and M1 North highways have been reopened. However, the M1 South remains closed due to rubble that was left behind,
"Traffic remains heavy in the area, and motorists are urged to avoid the M1 South and use alternative routes while officials work to clear the debris from the highway."
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