Massive strike hits C. Java

Massive strike hits C. Java

SEMARANG: More than 1,000 bus drivers in several northern Java
towns went on strike yesterday demanding the provincial
government allow them to raise fares.

The massive strike that crippled Jepara, Kelet, Keling, Tayu,
Trengkil, Juana, Pati and Sukolilo left thousands of people
scrambling for other means of transportation, police said.

The military was forced to mobilize its trucks to transport
people while drivers who did not support the strike said they did
not dare work because they had been threatened.

Military and privately owned trucks carrying travelers between
the affected towns were escorted by armed soldiers.

"We are afraid the striking drivers will attack us if we were
are not escorted by soldiers," said Suyono, who drove his own
truck to transport people.

Drivers said that since the economic crisis took a grip last
July, their incomes had dropped drastically in real terms while
prices of essential commodities continued to skyrocket.

"Besides, prices of motorized vehicle parts have tripled. How
can we survive with fares at the current levels?" a driver said.

Some drivers said they planned a five-day strike unless their
demands were met. (har)