The Cuban transportation sector is currently facing complex challenges, as discussed in the recent episode of the program Desde la Presidency. The first secretary of the Party and president of the Republic, Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, hosted the program, with the head of Transportation, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, as a guest.
The program highlighted the deficit in services in the transportation sector, which has led to discontent among the population. It was noted that passenger transportation has decreased significantly, with only about 2.7 million passengers being transported daily compared to 5.9 million five years ago.
One of the main issues discussed was the need to address weaknesses in the sector, such as access to foreign currency for essential spare parts, lubricants, and fuel. The importance of balancing initiatives to improve transportation with the use of renewable energy and electrification was also emphasized.
Rodríguez Dávila mentioned challenges faced by drivers of state vehicles, such as violations and indiscipline. He also highlighted other sources of citizen complaints, such as aggressiveness towards the population by service providers and vice versa.
Regarding cargo transportation, it was mentioned that half of the cargo that was transported five years ago is currently being moved. The economic situation of the country, as well as internal insufficiencies, were cited as reasons for the limitations in meeting the population’s transportation needs.
The program also addressed measures announced in mid-January to improve the transportation situation in Cuba. The measures aimed to make inefficient state transport companies more profitable without affecting the population, benefiting over 60,000 workers, students, and people with medical needs.
The government is now focusing on developing a resilient and low-carbon transportation program with international cooperation, to improve the sector. The importance of effective communication between the government and the population, specifically with regard to the Ministry of Transportation, was also highlighted.
Overall, despite the challenges faced by the transportation sector in Cuba, efforts are being made to address the issues and improve the system for the benefit of the population.