Unpaid salaries bus workers tragedy has struck a state-owned bus company, with fourteen employees dying by suicide and another from starvation. They endured months without pay while the company’s debt surged from R355 million to R1 billion during business rescue.
The loss of wages left many unable to cover rent, buy food or pay school fees. As the financial burden grew, emotional stress mounted, and families faced unbearable pressure.
Business Rescue Worsens Financial Strain
The company, which includes North West Transport Investment, North West Star and Atteridgeville Bus Service, entered business rescue under the North West government. This process aimed to stabilise finances and save jobs. However, debt escalated, and unpaid salaries bus workers endured remained unresolved.
Instead of relief, employees experienced continued hardship. Although restructuring talks progressed, workers still lacked income to support themselves or their dependants.
Human Toll of the Salary Crisis
The unpaid salaries bus workers crisis has had devastating consequences. Fourteen suicides and one death from starvation show the severe human impact. Without regular wages, many fell into extreme poverty and had to make impossible choices between basic needs.
This tragedy illustrates how prolonged wage disputes in state-owned companies can destroy lives when solutions take too long.
Legal Disputes Delay Resolution
Ongoing legal battles over liabilities and assets have slowed the business rescue process. These disputes have left workers without certainty or financial security, while the company’s debt continues to rise. The drawn-out process has eroded trust and deepened the crisis.
Urgent Need for Intervention
The unpaid salaries bus workers situation has triggered urgent calls for action. Labour representatives insist that paying employees must take priority in the restructuring plan. Without decisive measures, more workers could suffer similar fates.
Ultimately, this crisis shows that financial recovery efforts must place people first. Timely payment of salaries is not just a contractual duty but a lifeline that safeguards the dignity, stability and survival of employees.
