Bolivia’s Santa Cruz is on the brink of a strike due to severe fuel shortages affecting agricultural and transport sectors. Workers demand consistent diesel supplies to avoid harvesting losses of billions in crops as the carnival approaches. A deadline for government action is set for March 3, leading to potential industrial action if unmet.
In Bolivia, fuel shortages are prompting a potential strike in Santa Cruz, threatening both the local economy and an upcoming carnival. Residents and agricultural workers demand reliable diesel supplies to harvest billions of dollars worth of crops. Many citizens are queuing daily for fuel, amplifying tensions as workers threaten to halt operations if the government does not respond by March 3, the eve of the carnival.
Agricultural industries are facing dire circumstances, with heavy transport operators and producers warning that a lack of diesel could lead to unharvested fields. Klaus Frerking, president of the Eastern Agricultural Chamber (CAO), emphasizes the need for at least 40 million liters of diesel to secure the harvest of an estimated 2.5 million tons of soybeans, essential for the agricultural economy.
The Association of Oilseeds and Wheat has highlighted an urgent crisis, predicting that over 1.2 million hectares of soybeans and 60,000 hectares of rice could be left in the fields if diesel supplies remain insufficient. Jaime Hernández, general manager of Anapo, stated, “The diesel issue is a major concern for producers, we regret that there is not enough diesel supply.”
Transport representatives are also alarmed; currently, only 60% of urban transport units are operational, with others stuck in lengthy fuel queues. Bismark Daza, an executive secretary of the Federation of Transporters, announced a potential 48-hour strike if the government does not secure fuel availability by March 3.
The urgent need for the government is to assure fuel distribution to prevent severe economic repercussions. Stakeholders are watching how the situation develops, focusing on ensuring that both diesel and gasoline supplies are restored promptly to support critical agricultural and transport industries.
In summary, Bolivia is facing a significant fuel crisis, particularly in Santa Cruz, where agricultural and transportation sectors are poised to strike due to diesel shortages. Agricultural leaders stress the necessity of a consistent fuel supply for safe and timely harvests, with deadlines set for the government to act before the Carnival. If unresolved, the impending strike could exacerbate economic losses across the region.
Original Source: www.dailystar.co.uk
