Argentine bus drivers threaten strike if wage increase not granted

The transport union UTA (Unión Tranviarios Automotor) in Argentina has confirmed that bus services will be paralyzed if drivers do not receive a salary increase. Union leaders state that collective bargaining negotiations are 'frozen' and that drivers' purchasing power has been severely eroded by high inflation. They criticize both employers and the state for failing to establish a coherent transportation policy.

Bus drivers argue that current wages are insufficient given the economic situation, and they see no alternative but to strike if an immediate improvement is not made. UTA warns that transportation could collapse if the government and employers do not take steps to resolve the issue. The union emphasizes that public transport is a public service and that the state should play a more active role.

With annual inflation exceeding 100% in Argentina, the erosion of transport workers' wages has become a major problem. UTA states that the raises implemented over the past year have been inadequate, leaving drivers struggling to make ends meet. The union is therefore demanding a new wage increase and has announced a work stoppage if their demands are not met.

Employers, on the other hand, argue that costs are rising and that they are not receiving sufficient subsidies from the state. Bus operators claim that increases in fuel and spare parts prices have put them in a difficult position, making it impossible to grant the raises the union is demanding. The government has not yet made an official statement, but it is known that a halt to public transport would cause major chaos.

Experts note that Argentina's economic crisis is also affecting the public transport sector, and such strike threats may increase in the coming period. The union says it will meet with the government in the coming days to seek a solution, but reiterates that services will be suspended if no concrete action is taken. This could lead to major disruptions for millions of Argentines who rely on bus transportation.