On the morning of December 3, Yerevan residents faced severe transportation disruptions as public transport drivers went on strike, effectively paralyzing most of the capital’s bus routes. Speaking with journalists, the drivers explained that the protest was prompted by unfulfilled promises from management to raise wages and improve working conditions.
Amid crowded bus stops and infrequent buses, a sharp conflict erupted between the striking drivers and city authorities. Yerevan City Hall took a hardline stance, calling the drivers' demands "illogical" and labeling their actions as blackmail. According to Mayor’s spokesperson Hayk Kostanyan, current wages for 15 working days before taxes are as follows: drivers of MAN buses earn $1,009, Zhong Tong buses $778, and Gazel City buses $552.
Kostanyan also emphasized that the recent introduction of a unified ticketing system has significantly reduced the shadow economy in public transportation, with further progress expected. He noted that the city administration regularly addresses issues raised by drivers and has already informed them of plans to improve working conditions as the shadow economy diminishes.
Yerevan Mayor Tigran Avinyan publicly apologized to residents for the inconvenience caused by the strike but maintained a firm position against the protesters. “We will not yield to blackmail or compromise. The organizers will face strict accountability,” the mayor stated.
Backing up these words with action, the city administration has already dismissed 18 drivers. Furthermore, City Hall intends to refer the actions of the strikers to relevant authorities for legal review, including possible violations of labor laws and the criminal code.
