Bus drivers in Yerevan have gone on strike
Since the early morning of December 3, bus drivers under Yerevan’s jurisdiction have gone on strike. Bus stops across the city are overcrowded due to the absence of numerous bus services.
The main reason for the strike is the demand for higher wages. It is reported that drivers were promised a salary increase following the introduction of a unified ticketing system, but no changes have been implemented. In the meantime, trolleybuses and minibuses continue to operate.
During the November 4 city council meeting, Mayor Tigran Avinyan announced that 171 newly acquired “ZhongTong” buses have already arrived in Yerevan, 342 drivers are needed, and the salary is set at 420,000 AMD.
Drivers of “MAN” buses earn 410,000 AMD for 14 days of work, with salaries reaching up to 430,000 AMD depending on seniority. “ZhongTong” bus drivers earn 330,000 AMD for the same period. Drivers of “Gazelle” minibuses receive 234,000 AMD for 14 days of work.
The press secretary of the mayor, Hayk Kostanyan, issued a statement emphasizing that employees of the city’s public transport organization are required to notify about a strike at least 14 days in advance. Even in such cases, they must ensure minimal conditions to meet the urgent needs of the public during the strike.
Kostanyan also provided details about the drivers’ salaries:
- MAN: 401,500 AMD
- ZhongTong: 309,500 AMD
- Gazelle City: 219,500 AMD