In the complex landscape of shortages that characterizes daily life in Cuba, where access to gasoline has become a significant headache, a new term has emerged that captures the essence of desperation: "the dry line," used to describe the endless queues at gas stations.
Manuel Viera noted on Facebook that "the dry queue" is a "new term unlocked in the Cuban hell," starkly reflecting the desperation caused by the energy crisis.
He also described the line as "a long queue to get gasoline while there's no gasoline. It's the line to wait and see if a truck full of fuel arrives, and they've been there for a week."
With great indignation and frustration, Viera expressed: "Meanwhile, the same media that claimed on the very day of his downfall that Bashar Al-Assad was stronger than ever, that he would not flee the country, and that it was all an enemy disinformation campaign, those same media are saying nothing about the renewed situation."
Finally, he emphasized: “There are the drivers, completely unaware of anything, totally uninformed in those long queues, trying not to lose hope.”
In his description, Viera captures not only the severe energy crisis facing the country but also the psychological toll on those trying to maintain hope amid complete uncertainty.
Recently, activist Johanna Jolá Álvarez reported on Facebook that gasoline prices on the black market are reaching alarming levels.
"I was just offered gasoline for 700 CUP per liter. I'm at a loss for words on how to respond. What a terrible reality we are living in!" he expressed in his post, accompanied by emojis that reflected his astonishment and outrage.
In November, Cuban authorities issued a statement regarding the shortage of JET-A1 aviation fuel, a situation that impacted the international airports of Havana and Varadero, forcing several tour operators to issue advisories to travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Fuel Crisis in Cuba
What is "la cola seca" in Cuba?
The term "la cola seca" refers to the long and endless queues at Cuban gas stations where no gasoline is available. This expression reflects the desperation of citizens waiting for fuel to arrive, with no certainty of when they will be able to refuel.
What is the price of gasoline on the Cuban black market?
The price of gasoline on the Cuban black market has reached 700 pesos per liter, and it is expected to rise even further, potentially reaching 1,000 pesos per liter. This increase is due to the severe fuel shortage the country is experiencing.
How does the fuel shortage affect daily life in Cuba?
The fuel shortage in Cuba severely impacts daily life, causing difficulties in transportation, disruptions in the collection of donations, and affecting essential services such as healthcare. Additionally, it has increased the cost of basic goods and services in the black market.
What is the relationship between the fuel crisis and power outages in Cuba?
The fuel crisis is closely linked to power outages in Cuba, as many families rely on gasoline-powered generators to cope with the blackouts. This reliance has increased demand and worsened the fuel shortage on the island.
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