Bolivia is tackling a fuel shortage by cutting school hours, eliminating lunch breaks for government workers, and reducing state vehicle usage. Protests have hindered fuel deliveries, prompting the government to prioritize farmers’ fuel access and combat smuggling with military support. President Arce reassures that the economy remains functional despite these challenges.
The government of Bolivia, led by President Luis Arce, is implementing measures to address an acute fuel shortage affecting the nation. Key actions include the elimination of lunch breaks for government employees, a reduction in in-person classes in schools, and a significant cutback on the usage of official vehicles. These steps aim to mitigate the ongoing fuel crisis that Bolivia has faced for months.
Bolivia’s economy has encountered difficulties since 2023, leading to public protests characterized by road blockades, which have exacerbated fuel delivery issues. In the past, Bolivia profited from gas exports; however, as revenues have dwindled, the government has resorted to importing fuel. Despite selling fuel at subsidized prices, these measures have not alleviated the situation.
President Arce articulated on March 12, “Bolivia is not bankrupt… it has an economy that continues to generate public investment.” In a bid to conserve fuel, the government plans to deploy only half the number of state vehicles previously used. Additionally, schools are encouraged to conduct more online classes to reduce transportation needs for both students and educators.
In a further effort to streamline operations, government offices will now operate continuously from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. without a lunch break, which is intended to lessen traffic congestion typically caused during this period. Additionally, priority fuel access will be granted to farmers, who rely on it for agricultural production.
Finally, the government intends to involve the military to combat fuel smuggling, thereby protecting the nation’s resources and managing the ongoing fuel crisis more effectively.
In summary, the Bolivian government is confronting a significant fuel shortage through a series of strategic measures, including changes to school schedules, government work hours, and vehicle usage. The economic challenges have prompted protests and necessitated new methods of resource management. By prioritizing agricultural needs and employing military resources, Bolivia seeks to stabilize its fuel situation while ensuring public investment continues.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
