In the complicated landscape of shortages that defines everyday life in Cuba, where accessing gasoline has become a genuine headache, a new term has emerged that encapsulates the essence of despair: "the dry line." This term is now used to describe the never-ending queues at gas stations.
Manuel Viera highlighted on Facebook that "the dry line" is a "newly unlocked term in the Cuban hell," starkly reflecting the desperation spurred by the energy crisis. He described it as "an immense queue to get gasoline when there's none available. It's the line to wait and see if a fuel truck arrives, and people have been there for a week."
Viera, filled with outrage and frustration, stated, "Meanwhile, the same media that claimed on the day of his downfall that Bashar Al-Assad was stronger than ever, wouldn't flee the country, and that it was all enemy misinformation, are not saying a word about the renewed crisis." He further emphasized, "Drivers stand there, clueless, entirely uninformed in those dry lines trying not to lose hope."
His description not only highlights the severe energy crisis the country is facing but also the psychological toll on those trying to maintain hope amidst total uncertainty.
Recently, activist Johanna Jolá Álvarez reported on Facebook that gasoline prices on the black market are reaching alarming levels. "I was just offered gasoline at 700 CUP per liter. I was left speechless. What a terrible reality we are living!" she expressed in her post, accompanied by emojis reflecting her shock and indignation.
In November, Cuban authorities issued a statement regarding the scarcity of JET-A1 aviation fuel, a situation that affected the international airports of Havana and Varadero, forcing several tour operators to issue advisories to travelers.
Understanding Cuba's Fuel Crisis
What is "the dry line" in Cuba?
"The dry line" is a term coined by Cubans to describe the endless queues at gas stations where fuel is unavailable, reflecting the country's severe energy crisis.
Why are gasoline prices rising in Cuba?
Gasoline prices in Cuba are increasing due to shortages and high demand, with black market prices reaching unprecedented levels.
How is the fuel shortage affecting Cuban airports?
The fuel shortage has impacted Cuban airports, particularly in Havana and Varadero, leading to advisories for travelers and disruptions in operations.