Political

Moldova Bus Strike: Transport Minister Calls Halt "Unacceptable"

The decision by the Association of Passenger Transport Operators (APOTA) to suspend regional and inter-regional bus services from February 27 to 29 is "unacceptable," declared Infrastructure and Regional Development Minister Andrei Spînu on Jurnal TV.

The official emphasised that citizens would be negatively impacted. The minister further stated that the demands of the transport operators remain unclear and that the protest actions do not seem aimed at modernising the sector.

Andrei Spînu indicated that the National Transport Agency could sanction operators who participate in the strike.

“We will work with ANTA to enforce the law against those who defy their routes. This decision is unacceptable; authorised operators have an obligation to provide these services. If they strike, ANTA will act in accordance with the law. I urge all carriers to fulfil their duties and ensure transportation for the public,” the minister affirmed.

In response, leaders of the Association of Passenger Transport Operators (APOTA) demand the alignment of the Road Transport Code with European legislation. APOTA Council Chairman Oleg Alexa stated that the government ignored carriers' demands announced during last week's protest, prompting the decision to suspend inter-regional and regional routes for three days.

“Our fundamental demand is to adjust legislation to meet European standards. We must make our voices heard and defend our interests. We have decided to suspend routes next Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, focusing on regional and inter-regional lines. This is not destructive, simply a suspension of activity,” said Oleg Alexa.

As a reminder, several regional and inter-regional routes will be unavailable for three days, beginning February 27. The strike comes as a response to the government's alleged inaction on the demands of the Association of Passenger Transport Operators.

Last week, carriers protested in the capital, expressing dissatisfaction with the provisions of the Road Transport Code. Parliament passed an amendment to the Code on December 22, 2023, which will take effect on March 1. This amendment alters the interval of intercity bus routes from 30 to 15 minutes and allows local administrations to set traffic schedules.

Translation by Iurie Tataru

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