Driver strike hits Pandeglang

PANDEGLANG, West Java: Dozens of buses were mobilized from government offices yesterday to ferry passengers left stranded by a massive strike by city bus drivers.

Students and workers were those most affected by the strike organized to protest the dramatic rise in prices of auto parts and to press demands for fare hikes.

Antara reported that major government offices looked like bus terminals as scores of people waited for buses to take them to work, school or home.

Military trucks were also mobilized to carry people as the strike practically paralyzed the district town.

Pandeglang regent R. Yaya Karsaya called on the striking drivers to return to work and not be provoked to turn violent while their demands were being reviewed. (pan)