Bus strike affecting the poor

Ican’t really believe that the bus strike entered its third week yesterday without a solution. Can you imagine what bus commuters have been going through for the past three weeks, trying to find alternative transport to reach work and school?

Considering the economic conditions we are living in these days, buses are convenient for people who are struggling financially – and now they have to dig deeper in their low pockets to pay the expensive alternative means of transport to transport them to and from work.

Negotiations are all about compromises and reaching common grounds, so with the current bus strike that drags on too long, one can’t help but wonder why is it so difficult for both parties to compromise and reach common ground.

Do they even think about the poor commuters who are left stranded?

According to statistics from StatsSA, 10.2% of our populatimes tion rely on buses as a means of transport – and a large number of those are suffering because of the ongoing bus strike.

The recent strike in Japan didn’t disadvantage commuters. In fact, they got free rides. But looking at this strike, it disadvantages the commuters.

I just wish both parties could think about poor commuters when they negotiate.

Thebe Kgwetiane Send us your letter

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