The bus strike by dozens of Putco workers is in its second week and the commuters are already feeling the pinch.
The workers, who demand a 6% pay hike and bonuses for 2020, embarked on an illegal strike last week, leaving commuters in Roseville, Pretoria and Dobsonville without an alternative to get to work and school.
Also last week, the Labour Court granted the company an interim interdict that ordered the workers back to their work stations. However, the workers have not heeded the call.
“Putco was granted an interim court interdict on Friday which declared the strike unprotected. The order was effective immediately and has been communicated to employees,” said Putco spokesperson Lindokuhle Xulu.
Xulu added that the workers have been given an ultimatum to return to work, failing which they will be in contempt of a court directive.
“Management has been in discussions with union officials to find an amicable way of resolving this impasse. Putco once again apologises to all affected passengers and urges them to make alternative travel arrangements until further notice.”
He added that the commuters with valid unused tickets will be reimbursed.
Media reports last week quoted Xulu as saying Putco had applied for an exemption from the bargaining council from having to pay the 6% pay increases and bonuses, and had been granted the reprieve.
However, the unions are said to have appealed the decision and were given an order for the company to pay 3% instead.
Xulu was further quoted as saying Putco had applied for the exemption as a result of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, which had affected the bus company’s financial sustainability.
PUTCO busses ke scam hle…bought a bus ticket ya the whole month n today drivers decide to go on a go slow….no busses today n ook die hele naweek…I CNT use cash NOOOOOO….
— Nonhlanhla (@nonhla33373578) September 2, 2022
Public transport availability in Gauteng will be disrupted today due to the Putco bus strike. This will specifically affect workers. Let's hope they resolve the issue quickly.
— Fred Nel (@FredNelDA) September 2, 2022
Morning Lerato mbele!
Normally I'm using putco bus to work, Eish the problem now the driver's are on strike since from last week,i tried to find alternative transport is taxi and is much expensive yhoo.— Candley Sky Seroba 🇿🇦 (@CandleySeroba) September 6, 2022
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