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Growing Fuel Shortages in Cuba
As fuel shortages dramatically increase in Cuba, drivers are now facing a staggering delay of several months just to refuel their vehicles. This ongoing crisis, largely attributed to a U.S. oil embargo, is creating chaos - particularly as gas stations enforce a new mandatory app called “El Ticket.” This government-run application is essential for reserving fuel appointments, yet many users, like retiree Jorge Reyes, find themselves buried in an overwhelming list of appointments - his number was reportedly around 7,000.
Understanding (El Ticket) App’s Limitations
The Ticket app, developed by XETID, was initially designed to streamline access to notaries and previous local gas sales, but it has transformed into a necessity for any driver seeking fuel. The app only allocates a limited number of appointments each day – just 50 in the case of Reyes' chosen gas station. This has led curious drivers to share information through WhatsApp groups about which stations might be less congested, despite some having 10,000 appointments ahead. With such high competition for fuel, the app is often seen as more a hindrance than a help.
The Cost of Fuel and Economic Hardship
Adding to the woes of Cuban drivers, the government has eliminated subsidized gasoline sales in local currency, which used to cost around 25 cents per liter. Now, gas is priced at $1.30 per liter - far too steep for the average Cuban worker whose monthly salary barely exceeds $20. The situation forces desperate drivers to resort to the black market, where prices can skyrocket to $6 per liter. This is unsustainable for the majority of Cubans.
Political and International Implications
The fuel crisis cannot be discussed without considering the political landscape. President Miguel Díaz-Canel has notably stated his willingness to negotiate with the U.S. while maintaining Cuba's sovereignty. Meanwhile, Cuba grapples with supply issues exacerbated by intensified sanctions, as countries like Venezuela withdraw support. In this climate, a group of UN human rights experts condemned the U.S. actions against Cuba, labeling them as a violation of international law.
Confronting A Dire Situation
Cuban citizens are caught in a crossfire of economic and political turmoil, with essential services slipping away. As power cuts and fuel scarcity continue to plague daily life, many are forced to innovate - using apps and group chats to navigate their situations just to meet basic needs. The ability to fuel a car has morphed from a simple convenience to a complex obstacle course, showcasing the delicate balance between government control and citizen needs in Cuba.
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