Cuban Drivers Endure Months-Long Wait for Gasoline Through Government App
In Havana, Cuba, drivers are facing unprecedented delays of several months to secure gasoline through a government-designed mobile application. The app, named "El Ticket," was introduced to alleviate the long physical lines that have plagued fuel stations across the country. However, it has inadvertently created a new form of digital queue, with wait times stretching into months rather than hours or days.
The Digital Queue Replaces Physical Lines
Retiree Jorge Reyes recently showcased his phone displaying the "El Ticket" app, which he uses to reserve a place in line for purchasing rationed gasoline. The application allows users to book a slot for fuel pickup, but the overwhelming demand has resulted in significant backlogs. Instead of standing in physical lines, Cubans now find themselves waiting virtually, with the app notifying them when their turn arrives—a process that can take months.
The Cuban government launched "El Ticket" as a solution to the chronic gasoline shortages that have affected the nation for years. By digitizing the reservation process, authorities aimed to reduce congestion at fuel stations and provide a more organized system for distribution. Unfortunately, the app has not addressed the underlying issue of limited fuel supply, leading to extended waiting periods that disrupt daily life and economic activities.
Impact on Daily Life and Economy
The prolonged wait times have severe implications for both individuals and the broader economy. For many Cubans, gasoline is essential for transportation to work, school, and medical appointments. The delays force residents to plan their schedules around uncertain fuel availability, often causing missed opportunities and increased stress.
Small businesses and agricultural operations are particularly hard-hit, as they rely on consistent fuel access for deliveries, machinery, and logistics. The scarcity exacerbates existing economic challenges, contributing to inflation and supply chain disruptions. Despite the app's intention to streamline the process, it has highlighted the persistent fuel crisis in Cuba, driven by factors such as international sanctions, domestic production issues, and global market fluctuations.
Government Response and Public Reaction
Cuban officials have acknowledged the delays but emphasize that the app is a step toward modernizing fuel distribution. They argue that without "El Ticket," the physical lines would be even more chaotic and unmanageable. However, public frustration is mounting, with many citizens expressing skepticism about the app's effectiveness.
Some users report technical glitches and inequities in the reservation system, where certain individuals or groups may receive priority. This has led to calls for greater transparency and improvements in the app's functionality. As the wait times continue to grow, there is increasing pressure on the government to find more sustainable solutions, such as increasing fuel imports or boosting domestic production.
Broader Context of Fuel Shortages in Cuba
Cuba's gasoline shortages are not a new phenomenon; they have been a recurring issue for decades due to the country's economic constraints and reliance on foreign oil. The situation has worsened in recent years because of tightened U.S. sanctions and reduced support from traditional allies like Venezuela. The "El Ticket" app represents an attempt to manage scarcity through technology, but it underscores the deeper structural problems within Cuba's energy sector.
Experts suggest that without addressing these root causes, digital solutions like the app may only offer temporary relief. In the meantime, Cuban drivers like Jorge Reyes must navigate the months-long wait, hoping for a notification that will allow them to fill their tanks and resume their daily routines.
