Protesting Conductors Cause Buenos Aires Trains to Move at a Snail’s Pace Due to Wage Hike Demands

Train commuters in Buenos Aires experienced significant delays on Thursday as railway workers staged a protest demanding better wages. The La Fraternidad (The Brotherhood) railway workers’ union called for the slowdown, reducing train speeds to just 19 miles per hour (30 kmh) after failed negotiations with Trenes Argentinos, the state firm overseeing the rail network.

The workers are seeking wage increases to keep up with the soaring cost of living in Argentina, where annual inflation is approaching 300%. This protest resulted in lengthy delays for passengers throughout the capital, with some facing challenges in their daily commute.

Despite the inconvenience, some passengers expressed gratitude that the trains were still running, as the union has threatened a 24-hour nationwide stoppage if an agreement is not reached by June 4. Analyst Gabriela Fanego, who commutes by train, noted, “At least they give you the possibility of continuing to travel and you don’t have to choose other means of transport.”

In addition to salary adjustments, workers are also advocating for increased investment and safety measures following a recent train collision in Buenos Aires that left dozens injured. Government authorities have scheduled a meeting between Trenes Argentinos and the union on June 6 in an effort to resolve the ongoing dispute.

The protest affected both passenger and freight lines, underscoring the impact of the railway workers’ demands on the daily lives of Buenos Aires residents.