A massive queue of vehicles stretching along Vía Blanca, at the exit from Havana towards Matanzas, has sparked outrage among Cubans. In a video shared on TikTok by user @ricardomiranda7906, an unending line of cars can be seen waiting to refuel with gasoline paid in dollars.
The footage depicts countless cars parked alongside the road, with some drivers chatting or waiting outside their vehicles. The video was accompanied by a strong message: “The dictatorship has hit rock bottom, look at these lines for dollar gas.”
Scenes like this have become increasingly common on the island, where fuel shortages persist and only foreign currency stations operate with some regularity. However, the majority of Cubans lack access to U.S. dollars, exacerbating social unrest and economic inequality.
In recent weeks, there have been numerous reports of extensive lines in various provinces, amidst an ongoing energy crisis affecting the nation. Meanwhile, the Cuban regime continues to prioritize sales in freely convertible currency (MLC) or foreign currency, leaving citizens with only Cuban pesos without options.
The situation captured on Vía Blanca is yet another indication of the collapse of the state's fuel distribution system and the growing dissatisfaction among the populace with a government failing to ensure basic services.
Understanding Cuba's Fuel Crisis
Why are Cubans facing long lines for gasoline?
Cubans are experiencing long lines for gasoline due to fuel shortages and the fact that most functioning gas stations require payment in foreign currency, which many Cubans do not have.
What is causing the fuel shortages in Cuba?
The fuel shortages in Cuba are part of a broader energy crisis, exacerbated by the regime's focus on foreign currency sales and the limited availability of resources.
How is the Cuban government responding to the fuel crisis?
The Cuban government continues to prioritize sales in freely convertible currency or foreign currency, leaving citizens with only Cuban pesos facing limited options.