Fuel Crisis in Bolivia Threatens Carnival as Locals Prepare to Strike

Fuel shortages in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, are prompting locals to strike, jeopardizing Carnival celebrations. Workers demand diesel assurances to prevent work stoppages, particularly threatening agricultural production worth billions. A deadline is set for government action before the Carnival begins, as transport representatives warn of impending strikes if diesel supplies are not secured.

The fuel crisis in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, is escalating as citizens prepare to strike, jeopardizing the upcoming Carnival festivities. Workers have issued an ultimatum to the government, demanding a stable supply of diesel to support crucial agricultural operations and prevent work stoppages. Agricultural producers and transportation sectors are feeling immense pressure due to the dwindling fuel supplies, with significant financial implications for the country’s crops.

A deadline of March 3 has been set as the Carnival is set to commence, with the agricultural sector stressing the need for fuel. Klaus Frerking, president of the Eastern Agricultural Chamber (CAO), highlighted the urgency, stating that the harvesting of 2.5 million tons of soybeans is contingent upon receiving sufficient diesel. He emphasized the necessity of at least 40 million liters of diesel to avoid jeopardizing a harvest valued at $2.3 billion.

Additionally, the Association of Oilseeds and Wheat (ANAPO) has raised alarms over vast areas of unharvested crops, noting the risk to 1.2 million hectares of soybeans and 60,000 hectares of rice. Jaime Hernández, general manager of Anapo, expressed regret over the inadequate diesel supply, urging YPFB to fulfill its commitments to the agricultural sector as harvesting begins.

The urban transport sector is also severely impacted by the diesel shortage. Bismark Daza, executive secretary of the Federation of Transporters, reported that only 60% of transport units are operational due to lengthy fuel queues. This sector has announced a strike planned for next Wednesday and Thursday should the government be unable to ensure fuel delivery by March 3.

Local leaders are calling for immediate government action to avert broader economic losses resulting from the fuel crisis. The situation highlights the critical importance of reliable fuel supply for both agricultural and transportation sectors, especially as the Carnival approaches, which could intensify public discontent if not resolved timely.

In summary, the fuel shortages in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, pose a significant threat to both agricultural operations and public transport. The looming strike ahead of the Carnival adds urgency to the situation, as agricultural producers stress the dire need for diesel to prevent extensive economic losses. Local leaders demand immediate government intervention to ensure adequate fuel supply and avert a crisis that could potentially disrupt daily life and the much-anticipated festivities.

Original Source: www.dailystar.co.uk