Bahrain bus drivers strike over pay

Almost 50 drivers have reportedly quit from Bahrain’s main bus operator during the past two days in a protest over pay.

The 47 Bahrainis account for around two thirds of drivers at Cars Transport Corporation. They were among 52 who refused to show up for work on Monday - demanding a $212.20 increase in their salaries, according to Gulf Daily News on Wednesday.

The Labour Ministry initially branded the strike illegal and five of those who stayed away returned to work yesterday.

However, a company spokesman claimed the remainder had quit - meaning bus services across the country were disrupted for a second day.

The firm has managed to maintain a reduced frequency on all of its routes with 22 drivers who did not take part in the walkout.

The workers say they earn around US$530.60 a month, but said that did not reflect the level of their work and they want at least $212.20 more.Government officials are set to hold a meeting with Cars management at 11am today in a bid to solve the dispute.

The company is based in Isa Town and has branches in Muharraq and Manama.

MORE FROM ARABIANBUSINESS.COM