Metrorail train services across Gauteng will be delayed and some cancelled on Monday due to a strike by "a few train" drivers, an official said.

"The strike action will have an adverse effect on our operations and train scheduling resulting in significantly fewer trains available," said Metrorail spokesperson Sibusiso Ngomane in a statement.

He said the "unprotected strike" by members of the SA Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu) was understood to have been triggered by "interventions" Metrorail management had rolled out to improve its services.

"We have a strong contingency plan in place designed to minimise disruption to the operations, however we urge our commuters and those who depend on our services to make use of alternative transport at this time," he said.

The majority of employees did not heed the call for the strike action, thus helping Metrorail to not completely shut down during the strike, he said.

"While management respects employees' rights to protest, it remains our view that the current action is unwarranted.

"We remain open to further engagements and discussions with the union with a view to resolve the current impasse," he said.