Minister Carlisle: It is Metrorail's Lawful Responsibility to Have Safe Trains

Robin Carlisle, the Minister of Transport and Public Works in the Western Cape, has expressed concern that the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa's (Prasa) defence in film technician Serge Loutala's R1.12m lawsuit against it will only further infuriate Metrorail commuters.

According to newspaper reports, in papers submitted to the Western Cape High Court, Prasa contended that it was negligent of Mr Loutala to sit so close to a window. The window pane was missing.

"One would be forgiven for asking Prasa where one should sit, if not on the designated benches provided," said Minister Carlisle.

"Although I would not usually comment on legal arguments before the courts, I am extremely concerned by the level of contempt this kind of argument conveys to ordinary commuters."

"Surely by now Metrorail understands the fury of commuters whose dignity, comfort, safety and time are compromised day after day, trip after trip," he said.

"It is Metrorail's lawful responsibility to have safe trains with windows and to protect its passengers from stone throwers," Minister Carlisle said.