Residents across several towns in Matanzas are decrying power outages lasting over 24 hours, amidst the breakdown of essential services and growing public discontent over perceived unfair treatment compared to other provinces. In areas like Boca de Camarioca, electricity cuts have stretched to 28 continuous hours, as reported by users on social media.
"Let's see how you handle the interruptions, because it seems Matanzas doesn't count. Oh, I understand now: we're the backup," a local resident expressed in a post aimed at the Matanzas Electric Company.
The prolonged blackout has hindered access to drinking water, the operation of household appliances, and food preservation, further exacerbating the already challenging situation faced by the population. "We're almost dead with this virus and no power. The people need water and food," another frustrated user wrote.
The outrage has quickly turned political. Some residents have drawn comparisons between their circumstances and those of other provinces, where recent protests have led to a reduction in the severity of power cuts. "In one province they protest and get rewarded with fewer blackouts; in Matanzas, we're punished with over 24 hours without power. What have we come to?" an online commenter questioned.
Voices of Frustration and Defiance
In the Matanzas Buy and Sell group, user Katiuska De Luca shared a heartfelt message that captures the emotional and physical exhaustion of the Matanzas people. "No, we shouldn't have to endure these blackouts. We are not obligated to this," she asserted angrily. "We deserve life, not this miserable survival imposed by leaders who would rather ruin the nation than lose their power," she added.
The complaints join a growing list of citizen grievances in recent weeks due to the intensifying energy deficit, worsening sanitary conditions, and lack of institutional response. In Matanzas, as in many other provinces, blackouts have become a daily occurrence, though resignation is starting to give way to protest.
Understanding Matanzas' Power Crisis
Why are power outages lasting so long in Matanzas?
Power outages in Matanzas are lasting so long due to the collapse of basic services and a deficient energy infrastructure that can't meet the demand, exacerbated by what residents perceive as unequal treatment compared to other provinces.
How are residents coping with extended blackouts?
Residents are struggling to cope with the extended blackouts as they disrupt access to drinking water, food preservation, and the use of essential appliances, leading to mounting frustration and calls for change.
What has been the government's response to the blackouts?
The government's response to the blackouts has been largely inadequate, with little to no communication or solutions provided to address the energy deficit and the growing unrest among the population.