Brazil: Unionized bus workers continue indefinite strike in Salvador as of May 21 /update 1

Bus workers affiliated with the Union of Road Transport Workers of the Metropolitan Region of Salvador (Trabalhadores em Transportes Rodoviarios da Regiao Metropolitana de Salvador, SINDMETRO) are continuing an indefinite strike as of May 21 following failed negotiations on May 20. The next negotiation meeting addressing the workers' labor-related demands is scheduled for May 23. The strike has mostly affected services in six areas of the Metropolitan Area of Salvador, namely Candeias, Camacari, Madre de Deus, Sao Francisco, Santo Amaro, and Simoes Filho. However, officials have introduced replacement buses for certain routes, including Camacari.

Related protests are possible in the coming days. In addition to the direct impact on public transport in Salvador, the walkout is likely to result in increased traffic congestion and demand for taxis, app-based ride-sharing, and metro services.