The recent time change in Cuba has once again disrupted the daily life of Cubans, this time affecting the state-run stores in Santa Clara. The local broadcaster, Estereocentro, has announced that these establishments will be altering their business hours following the switch to winter time on November 2.
This government policy, introduced as a strategy to "conserve energy" and "make better use of natural light," has stirred more frustration than understanding among the residents. Many see this adjustment as yet another superficial fix to the ongoing energy crisis that has been plaguing the nation for years.
Despite official claims that turning the clocks back an hour will ease power outages, the public remains skeptical. "We won't have enough time to buy everything that arrives at the store," remarked one Santa Clara resident with irony on the broadcaster's post, while another questioned, "Why aren't bread points changing too, if they're just like a store? Or are we not the same?"
Other individuals expressed their frustration with what they perceive as a system lacking real solutions. "Honestly, they should just close them and leave one per area. They'd probably save thousands in salaries and solve the housing problem," one user suggested. Another was more blunt: "It doesn't matter if there's nothing in the stores."
Amid widespread discontent over blackouts and shortages, many see this measure as a reminder that Cubans must continually readjust their lives to the rhythm of scarcity. As one online commenter sarcastically put it, "Two hours are enough if they're just decorative objects in the neighborhoods."
Common Concerns About Santa Clara's New Store Hours
Why are Santa Clara's store hours changing?
The store hours are changing as part of a government initiative to "save energy" and "maximize natural light" following the switch to winter time.
How has the public reacted to the new store hours?
The public has reacted with frustration and skepticism, viewing the change as a superficial attempt to address deeper issues like the ongoing energy crisis.