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In Cuba, public transport is facing a critical situation, and a clear example of this is what is happening in Ciego de Ávila. Of the 135 bus routes designated for passenger transportation, currently only two are operational, and they do so with minimal and irregular frequencies, which severely limits the daily mobility of the population.
The information was published by the official newspaper Invasor, which attributes the decline in service primarily to the worsening fuel crisis facing the country and the low technical availability of vehicles.
The passenger transportation plan for this year was already limited, with approximately 11 million trips expected. In 2025, the initial target of 18 million was also not met, as only 75% of the plan was achieved due to fuel shortages and technical issues with the fleet.
The difficulties are not only present in bus routes; they also extend to rail transport.
The director of Transportation in Ciego de Ávila, Olga Gener Pérez, reported that the seven train routes operating in the province are currently suspended due to a fuel shortage, having previously operated for four months with good acceptance.
In light of this situation, local authorities are seeking alternatives to maintain certain services. Among the announced measures is the introduction of four electric tricycles capable of covering around 120 kilometers with a load of up to 1.5 tons.
It is also planned to add a 14-seat minibus to support medical transfers and consultations, amid the increasing difficulties in ensuring patient mobility.
People receiving hemodialysis in the municipalities of Ciego de Ávila and Morón are being transported by electric tricycles, with changes to the schedule and less comfort compared to when they were using taxis.
In other municipalities, some patients must remain hospitalized due to a lack of transportation. Meanwhile, the bus designated for medical shifts to Havana has reduced its frequency to one departure per week.
Public transportation in Cuba is in total collapse, but the decline of this sector began with significant limitations even before the current energy crisis.
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