Bus strike throws life out of gear in Bahrain
Manama: The indefinite strike called by bus drivers yesterday affected thousands of commuters, who rely on public transport buses. Drivers went on indefinite strike by raising issues like wages, benefits and break timings.
A Bahrain Public Transport Company (Bahrain Bus) representative on condition of anonymity said: “We actually have no idea as to why they have called for this strike. We have never denied any of their demands. But we have asked them to follow strict rules and regulations to maintain safety of the commuters.”
“As per the rules, warnings are issued to those drivers who violate the safety rules, such as using mobile phones at wheels, counting money on transit or for an unsafe stopping at traffic signals. The company does not impose penalty or fine, but their chances of receiving bonuses will be reduced. The drivers are eligible for four days off monthly,” he explained. “The company has employed around 300 professional drivers from different nationalities, including Bahrain, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Philippines, and Kenya.”
While around 25pc of the drivers were on strike, it was observed that some of them settled for addressing their grievances to the management and continued their regular duty.
One of the drivers, who is on strike, said, “We know that the strike will disturb the public travelling. But the management has refused to rectify the pay inequality of our members. We are not receiving overtime or proper weekly off. The strike is just an outburst of our emotions.”
“Our intention is not to disrupt the existing system, but to have a definite recognition from the management. Then the bus services will run smoothly,” he added.
As the majority of the drivers were from Sri Lanka, the company has asked the Embassy of Sri Lanka to negotiate between the management and the drivers. The step is deemed as an attempt to avoid causing hardships to the passengers.
Meanwhile, speaking to DT News, a spokesperson from the Embassy said, “We had a meeting with the management and drivers, who are concerned about their wages and benefits. But, now we are unable to furnish any details regarding the meeting until we get a note from the embassy.”
However, people were seen unusually queuing at some of the bus stops, including in Manama, Isa Town and Muharraq Central.
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