Amidst the severe energy crisis impacting Cubans, a broken manufactured gas pipeline has further exacerbated the situation for residents in two Havana districts. The domestic gas supply will be halted until the damaged section is replaced in the upcoming days.
The Manufactured Gas Company released a statement on Wednesday announcing that a pipeline section on Avenue 51, stretching from 96 to 100, will undergo replacement to "ensure the stability of the gas service in the Playa-Marianao network."
To carry out these repairs, there will be a "complete shutdown" of production plant #2 from 10 PM on Friday, May 9, until 4 AM on Saturday, May 10. This will entirely disrupt service in the Playa and Marianao districts, the company stated.
Affiliated with the state-run oil company CUPET, the enterprise apologized to the affected residents for "any inconvenience this interruption may cause" and reaffirmed its "commitment to providing quality service to its customers."
Impact of Energy Shortages in Cuba
The issues with manufactured gas service in the capital are part of Cuba's acute energy crisis, which also includes a shortage of liquefied gas nationwide and frequent, prolonged blackouts.
In late April, the manufactured gas production plant #1 (Melones) in Havana halted service in the Plaza de la Revolución, La Habana Vieja, Centro Habana, Cerro, and Diez de Octubre districts for "unavoidable" maintenance tasks. Just a month prior, the industry had to make another imperative stop to "ensure gas stability" in these five districts.
Daily Life Disrupted by Gas Scarcity
Meanwhile, the scarcity of liquefied gas continues to disrupt the daily lives of many Cubans, with the government failing to resolve the months-long fuel shortage.
For months, citizens have endured long lines trying to purchase gas, often waiting hours or days without success. With no alternative, thousands of families have resorted to cooking with wood and charcoal due to the lack of basic fuels.
Less than two weeks ago, CUPET confirmed the ongoing shortage of liquefied gas due to supply deficits. "As of now, no liquefied gas shipments have arrived, and the nationwide deficit persists," stated the Fuel Distribution Base Business Unit in Camagüey in a communiqué issued to clear up misinformation circulating on social media.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What caused the gas pipeline break in Havana?
The exact cause of the gas pipeline break has not been detailed, but it is part of the broader energy infrastructure challenges facing Cuba.
How long will the gas supply be interrupted in Playa and Marianao?
The gas supply will be halted from 10 PM on May 9 until 4 AM on May 10 for the necessary repairs.
What is CUPET's role in Cuba's energy crisis?
CUPET, the state-run oil company, is responsible for managing and distributing fuel resources, and it has acknowledged the ongoing liquefied gas shortages due to supply issues.
Are there any alternatives for Cuban families facing gas shortages?
With limited options, many Cuban families have turned to wood and charcoal for cooking as they struggle with the lack of gas and other essential fuels.