Bolivia Faces Fuel Crisis: Santa Cruz Residents Threaten Strike Over Diesel Shortages

Santa Cruz, Bolivia, is facing a severe fuel shortage, leading to potential strikes among locals and threatening agricultural production as well as an upcoming carnival. Workers demand guaranteed diesel supply to maintain operations, as billions of dollars worth of crops are at stake. A deadline has been issued for action to avoid strikes that would impact the economy negatively.

In Santa Cruz, Bolivia, a significant fuel shortage is pushing locals toward a potential strike, threatening a cherished carnival and the agricultural sector. Workers are demanding a reliable diesel supply, warning that failure to meet their needs will lead to a work stoppage. The agricultural industry, crucial to the economy, risks losing billions due to unharvested crops if the situation is not addressed promptly.

A looming deadline of March 3 has been set by various sectors, ahead of the two-day carnival slated to begin in Santa Cruz. Klaus Frerking, president of the Eastern Agricultural Chamber (CAO), emphasized the necessity for a steady diesel supply of at least 40 million liters to successfully harvest the approaching crops worth approximately $2.3 billion.

Furthermore, the Association of Oilseeds and Wheat (ANAPO) has expressed grave concerns about over 1.2 million hectares of soybeans and 60,000 hectares of rice that may remain unharvested due to the ongoing diesel crisis. Jaime Hernández, general manager of ANAPO, articulated the urgency of the diesel requirement for the productive sector as the soybean harvest approaches.

The urban transport sector is equally impacted, with only 60% of transport vehicles operational due to fuel shortages. Bismark Daza, executive secretary of the Federation of Transporters, stated that without guaranteed fuel supply by the deadline, a 48-hour strike would commence next week, exacerbating the economic distress within the community.

To avert widespread economic consequences, stakeholders are pressing for immediate solutions to ensure consistent diesel distribution. The situation remains critical as local concerns mount over the future of both agricultural production and urban transport capabilities.

In summary, the fuel shortage in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, poses a significant threat to both the agricultural sector and the urban transport system. As workers prepare to strike, the urgency for a consistent diesel supply becomes clear, with billions of dollars in crops at stake. The impending carnival serves as a critical deadline for the government to take immediate action to prevent economic disruption and sustain local livelihoods.

Original Source: www.dailystar.co.uk