In recent days, the state of bus terminals across Cuba has reached a dire situation as the nation approaches Christmas and New Year's celebrations. Passengers face interminable lines, growing anxiety, and a shortage of available buses, creating turmoil in major urban areas throughout the island.
One of the most severe scenarios is unfolding at the National Bus Terminal in Cienfuegos, as reported by the Facebook page Rodando por Cuba. Their post highlighted the terminal's overcrowding, not only with individuals on waiting lists but also with those who possess confirmed reservations to various destinations. However, the buses have yet to arrive. Specifically, for the route to Havana, only one of the four scheduled buses departed at 6:00 a.m., leaving hundreds stranded without any communication on possible resolutions.
These circumstances mirror what was shared by the Facebook page La Tijera, noting that travelers at this terminal endured a "rough night" on Christmas Eve. At 4:30 a.m., passengers learned from a worker that the bus slated for Santa Clara at 5:00 a.m. remained in the workshop, lacking fuel and with no guarantee of completing the journey. Additionally, the previous day's service was over nine hours late, departing at 2:00 p.m.
The situation proved equally grim for those intending to travel to Manzanillo, with a bus scheduled for 7:00 a.m., and to Camagüey, set for 8:00 a.m. In both scenarios, passengers were not only met with delays but also with complete uncertainty over whether the trips would occur.
A message directed at the Minister of Transportation, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, sarcastically questioned the availability of fuel and transportation: "Now there's no fuel or transportation? Head over to Villa Nueva with the buses from the combat march." This comment underscores the public's frustration, as they argue that addressing essential needs should take precedence over diverting resources to propaganda events like the so-called "combatant people's march" organized by leader Miguel Díaz-Canel on Friday, December 20.
Such grievances contribute to a growing wave of discontent across the island. The lack of public transportation, compounded by rising costs of private options, has left many Cubans with no feasible means of travel. The transportation collapse in Cuba is a daily issue, intensified during this festive season, where its scarcity is compounded by shortages of food and basic goods, making it increasingly difficult to welcome the new year with joy instead of in a progressively critical context.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuba's Transportation Crisis
What is causing the transportation issues in Cuba?
Cuba is experiencing a severe shortage of buses and fuel, leading to delays and cancellations across the country's transportation network. This has been exacerbated by poor infrastructure and economic difficulties.
How are Cuban citizens reacting to the transportation crisis?
Citizens are expressing frustration and anger, particularly as essential travel is compromised. Many criticize the government's prioritization of propaganda events over addressing basic transportation needs.
What impact does the transportation collapse have on daily life in Cuba?
The collapse of transportation significantly affects daily life, making it difficult for people to commute, access goods, and celebrate holidays. It compounds existing issues like food and product shortages.