THE ongoing bus strike affecting three traditional areas has angered the head of the uBuka Traditional Authority, iNkosi Phiwayinkosi Biyela.
Biyela told the ZO he was disturbed by the fact that commuters from uBuka, Sanguye and Ntembeni have been left in the lurch by the two-week bus strike.
Drivers of Biyela Bus Service ‘downed tools’, demanding salary increases.
‘What pains me is to see my people suffering. With poverty and unemployment levels at its peak, buses have become the cheapest form of transport for most commuters here. ‘Sadly these poor people are struggling to get to work as they cannot afford taxi fares.’
ALSO READ: Bus drivers strike leaves commuters stranded
iNkosi Biyela said he has reported the issue to the provincial Department of Transport, but no action has been taken to resolve the impasse.
‘We are unhappy about the manner in which the Department of Transport is handling the strike. They promised to bring the two groups together under one roof to iron out differences, but to date nothing has happened. Our people are still suffering.’
‘Apart from going to work, people also need transport to go to places such as hospitals for medication, but they are unable to do so because taxis are expensive.’
Spokesperson for KZN Department of Transport, Kwanele Ncalane, said they were aware of the situation and promised to intervene.
‘It is not easy to terminate the contract of the bus company operating in the area, as their contract is still valid, but we will use other avenues to help the community.’
Vote for your favourite business in Zululand here: BestofZululand.co.za
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
