A family in the Reparto Dessy neighborhood of Santiago de Cuba has been forced to use firewood for cooking due to the lack of gas and kerosene supplies in the province.
A report by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada indicates that the affected residents, living at Calle 5ta #203 interior, between Calle 2da and 3ra, have not received kerosene via the Ration Book for over two years. A member of the affected family stated that they were not included in the gas contract, leaving them dependent on kerosene, commonly known as "Luzbrillante."
However, this fuel is no longer available at the designated outlets for non-gasified households. The situation has forced the family to rely on firewood as their only energy source for cooking, representing a significant setback in terms of comfort and health. Using firewood involves considerable effort to collect it and exposes family members to health risks due to smoke and combustion, complain the affected residents, who assert that they are living in challenging conditions.
Recently, authorities in Santiago de Cuba announced the sale of charcoal to the population "as an alternative to the electricity deficit and fuel situation" in the country. The governor of the province, Manuel Falcón Hernández, explained during a meeting with local deputies that measures are being taken to initiate the sale of charcoal, one of the government's decisions to try to ease public discontent amid power outages lasting up to 20 hours.
However, in various provinces, including Havana, families have been reported cooking with firewood due to the endless blackouts and other reasons.
Understanding the Fuel Crisis in Santiago de Cuba
This section aims to address common questions regarding the ongoing fuel crisis and its impact on daily life in Santiago de Cuba.
Why are families in Santiago de Cuba relying on firewood for cooking?
Families are relying on firewood due to the unavailability of gas and kerosene, which have not been supplied through the Ration Book for over two years.
What are the health risks associated with cooking with firewood?
Cooking with firewood exposes individuals to smoke and combustion, which can lead to respiratory issues and other health problems.
What measures are being taken by the government to address the fuel crisis?
The government has announced the sale of charcoal as an alternative fuel source to mitigate the electricity and fuel shortages.