Feb 9 • 19:30 UTC 🇦🇷 Argentina Clarin (ES)

The lack of fuel in Cuba: remote work, four-day week and traffic restrictions to cope with the crisis

Cuba has implemented emergency measures to conserve fuel amidst severe shortages caused by U.S. restrictions, impacting daily life.

Cuba has initiated emergency measures starting Monday, aimed at conserving fuel due to an energy stranglehold imposed by the United States. These measures, intended to mitigate the impacts of fuel shortages, significantly affect the daily routines of citizens. Reports from Havana indicate reduced traffic levels, with many residents, particularly in areas like El Vedado, struggling to find transportation for their daily activities. Personal testimonies, such as that of Rosa Ramos, a nurse who faced long waits for transport, highlight the strain that these shortages place on essential services and worker mobility.

The government's recent announcements include a four-day work week designed to save electricity, and the promotion of telework, alongside restrictions on fuel sales to individuals. These initiatives are described as "measures of resistance" aimed at preventing the country from collapsing under the pressure of ongoing economic and energy crises. However, they also contribute to feelings of uncertainty among the population, as many worry about the longevity of these restrictions and their own livelihoods.

As the situation develops, the impact of these measures on Cuban society remains to be seen in the longer term. While aimed at mitigating immediate challenges, the adaptation to a new work structure and fuel scarcity may cause further stress among citizens already grappling with economic difficulties. The measures could also set a precedent for how the government responds in crises, potentially reshaping labor norms and lifestyle in Cuba for the foreseeable future.

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