Commuters in Kingston, Portmore, and Spanish Town experienced significant disruptions this morning as drivers from the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) initiated a strike. The industrial action, which began at 4:00 AM, involves drivers from the Rockfort, Portmore, and Spanish Town depots, all represented by the University and Allied Workers Union (UAWU).
The strike was prompted by an incident on Friday, during which a driver was allegedly assaulted. In response, JUTC management temporarily reassigned the two employees involved, ensuring they retained their employment benefits during the ongoing investigation. However, the protesting drivers are demanding immediate termination of the individuals implicated, a course of action the company deems inappropriate without a full investigation.
As a result of the strike, several routes have been disrupted, leaving many commuters stranded. JUTC has implemented contingency measures to minimize the impact and is actively engaging with union representatives to resolve the situation promptly.
Transport Minister Daryl Vaz has indicated that operations are back to normal at JUTC, while negotiations between the company’s management and the union continue.
Commuters are advised to stay informed through official JUTC channels for further updates as the situation develops.

