Bolivia Implements Measures to Combat Fuel Shortage

Bolivia is addressing a fuel shortage by reducing school hours, eliminating lunch breaks for government employees, and decreasing the use of state cars. Farmers will receive priority for fuel access, while military will prevent smuggling. President Arce affirms that the economy remains capable of supporting public investment despite ongoing challenges.

Bolivia is implementing new measures to address an ongoing fuel shortage. President Luis Arce has announced a series of initiatives, including the elimination of lunch breaks for government workers, a reduction in in-person classes in schools, and a significant decrease in the use of official vehicles. These steps are part of a broader effort to mitigate the persistent fuel challenges facing the nation for several months.

The Bolivian economy has experienced difficulties since 2023, prompting public protests that have obstructed roadways and hindered fuel delivery. Historically, Bolivia profited substantially from gas sales, but revenues have fallen, compelling the government to import fuel more sparingly. To assist in maintaining affordable prices for fuel, the government provides subsidies, keeping costs low for consumers.

In a speech delivered on March 12, 2023, President Arce stated, “Bolivia is not bankrupt… it has an economy that continues to generate public investment.” To conserve fuel, the government plans to reduce the number of state-owned vehicles utilized by half and increase online classes in schools, minimizing travel for both students and teachers.

Furthermore, government workers will now adhere to a set schedule, working from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. without a designated lunch break, a move aimed at alleviating traffic congestion. The government has prioritized farmers by granting them first access to available fuel, essential for agricultural productivity. Additionally, military personnel will be deployed to prevent the illegal smuggling of fuel across borders.

In response to a significant fuel shortage, Bolivia has instituted various measures aimed at conserving fuel and addressing economic instability. These include cutting school hours, eliminating lunch breaks for government employees, and prioritizing farmers for fuel access. President Arce assures that the economy is stable enough to support public investment, although challenges persist amidst ongoing protests affecting fuel delivery.

Original Source: globalsouthworld.com