AMMAN — Medical staff reported a shortage of certain
medical supplies at some laboratories, hospitals, and
pharmacies, as a result
of ongoing transport strikes across the Kingdom, Ammon News reported.
اضافة اعلان
The strikes, which broke out last week, started with
truckers in Aqaba and Maan governorates but has since grown to include drivers
and owners of minibuses, rideshare cabs, yellow taxis, and water tankers.
Health workers reported a shortage of 5ml syringes — the
most commonly used — due to a lack of supplies from the
Port of Aqaba,
attributing the scarcity to the strikes. They have instead been using 2ml and
10ml syringes where possible.
Experts warned that other medical supplies, foodstuffs, and
essential goods would be in short supply in the coming days if the transport
strikes continue.
Protestors, including those interviewed by Jordan News, have
cited the latest fuel hike as the primary threat to their livelihood. Other
grievances include a four-year freeze of minimum wage in the sector and
deterioration of the freight sector in general.
The strikes have continued despite an agreement between the
Truck Owners Association and the
Land Transport Regulatory Commission (LTRC).
As part of the agreement, the LTRC agreed to increase a variety of freight fees
and discuss new wages. The commission also said it would form a committee
comprising all stakeholders to discuss issues in the sector.
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