Is transport in Cuba coming to a standstill amid the energy crisis? This is what the minister of the sector says

Minister Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila denied rumors of a transportation halt in Cuba, assuring the continuous operation of interprovincial services despite the energy crisis affecting the country.

National bus servicePhoto © Facebook/Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila

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In response to the circulation of information regarding a supposed halt in interprovincial transportation, the sector minister in Cuba, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, denied the rumors and assured that the service will continue to operate normally throughout the country.

In a post published on his Facebook profile, where he usually shares such information, Rodríguez Dávila emphasized that, although there have been some operational issues, services have not been canceled due to the deficit in electricity generation in the country.

Facebook capture/Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila

He pointed out that the services of the National Bus Company continue to operate normally and that the Guantánamo-Havana train has already departed with its locomotive, with technicians waiting for its inspection.

Moreover, he explained that the Havana-Holguín train is experiencing delays due to technical issues, but its departure is assured, and that the Ferry Perseverancia, responsible for transporting passengers between Batabanó and Gerona, continues to operate as planned.

The statement comes in response to the dissemination on social media of messages warning about a possible halt to interprovincial transport due to the energy crisis in Cuba, which has already compelled the suspension of work and teaching activities.

Rodríguez Dávila emphasized that the false information arose from a statement by the VIAJERO Reservation Services company regarding the opening hours of ticket sales offices.

The energy crisis in Cuba has had a significant impact on various sectors, including interprovincial transportation. Since October 2024, the country has faced massive blackouts due to failures in key thermoelectric plants, such as the Antonio Guiteras Thermoelectric Power Plant, and to fuel shortages. These interruptions in the electricity supply have affected the daily lives of Cubans, limiting access to basic services and provoking protests in several regions.

In response to the crisis, the government has implemented measures such as suspending non-essential activities and closing schools to reduce energy consumption. However, these actions have been insufficient to stabilize the National Electric System (SEN), and prolonged power outages continue to impact both the population and key sectors of the economy.

Despite efforts to keep interprovincial transport services operational, logistical difficulties and a lack of resources have caused delays and cancellations in bus and train routes.

The scarcity of fuel and the poor technical conditions of the railway and road infrastructure have exacerbated the situation, affecting the mobility of citizens and the distribution of essential goods.

The combination of outdated energy infrastructure, lack of investment, and international sanctions has placed Cuba in a position of extreme vulnerability.

Experts agree that without a structural change in the economic model and more efficient management, the country will continue to face recurring energy crises that will negatively impact vital sectors such as transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis and Transportation in Cuba

Is interprovincial transportation in Cuba paralyzed due to the energy crisis?

No, interprovincial transportation is not halted in Cuba. The Minister of Transportation, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, denied rumors of a supposed shutdown and assured that bus and train services continue to operate, albeit with some delays due to technical and logistical issues related to the energy crisis.

What impact does the energy crisis have on transportation in Cuba?

The energy crisis in Cuba has caused delays and limited operations in transportation services, as the lack of electricity and fuel affects both trains and interprovincial buses. Although the government is trying to keep the services running, the scarcity of resources and poor infrastructure complicate the situation.

What measures have been taken to ensure transportation during the blackouts?

The Cuban government has implemented energy backup systems at airports and train stations to ensure the continuity of transportation services during blackouts. However, these measures are insufficient to resolve the logistical problems caused by the energy crisis, leading to operations with limitations.

How does the fuel shortage affect transportation in Cuba?

The fuel shortage complicates the movement of buses and trains, leading to delays and cancellations in interprovincial transport routes. The lack of fuel also impacts the government's ability to respond to mitigate the effects of the energy crisis in the transport sector.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.

CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.