In Bolivia, a severe fuel crisis has left many residents queuing for days, particularly in the towns of Rurrenabaque and Caranavi. As of March 21, 2025, people have been reported to wait up to five days to refuel their vehicles, creating an atmosphere of frustration and desperation.
One resident of Rurrenabaque shared their experience, stating they had been in line since Sunday, March 16. They remarked, "I’m here because if I leave, I’ll lose my spot in the queue." The situation at fueling stations has turned chaotic, with countless trucks, cars, and motorcycles jostling for space, leading to frequent disputes among frustrated drivers.
Beyond Rurrenabaque, similar scenes have been witnessed in Caranavi, where Mayor Eustaquio Huiza expressed his alarm at the growing crisis. The fuel shortages in areas like Caranavi have become critical, especially as illegal diversion networks exacerbate the problem. Huiza noted, "Caranavi is losing control, and it is now a significant concern for us as local authorities." The mayor pointed out that despite multiple complaints to national authorities, no significant action had been taken to resolve the underlying issues.
The Bolivian government has recently acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, with Minister of Public Works, Édgar Montaño, stating bold commitments to end public outcry. On March 21, he proclaimed, "Hasta el 31 de marzo de la presente gestión se normalizará el abastecimiento de diésel oil y de gasolina Especial en todo el territorio nacional," translating to a promise that fuel supply would normalize by March 31, 2025. This declaration was made amidst ongoing lines at gas stations across the country.
Transport workers and farmers are particularly anxious, as their livelihoods hinge on access to fuel. The National Association of Oilseed and Wheat Producers (Anapo) has voiced the urgency, stating that its 14,000 members are in despair due to diesel shortages critical for their operations.
Amidst growing unrest, Cochamanidis, the President of the Pro-Santa Cruz Committee, criticized President Luis Arce harshly, likening him to the biblical figure Pontius Pilate, claiming he has washed his hands of the crisis. "Creo que el nombre correcto del presidente de Estado es Pilato (Luis) Arce porque lo único que está haciendo es lavarse las manos y hasta podríamos ponerle Pinocho, porque lo único que hace es mentir al pueblo," he said, calling for accountability from the government.
Facing mounting pressure, the government is attempting to address the crisis. Montaño reported that they have agreed to adjust rules surrounding the purchase of natural gas cylinders to encourage the transition to Gas Natural Vehicle (GNV), alongside efforts to increase fuel supply from 50% to 80% compared to usual consumption levels.
YPFB, the national oil company, recently announced a 50% reduction in queues due to increased distribution efforts. Gloria Rojas, YPFB's Director, disclosed that dispatch volumes had significantly risen, saying, "Los despachos están muy por encima de lo que habíamos estado recibiendo las semanas pasadas." This indicates a proactive approach from the government, aiming to stabilize the situation.
However, as of now, uncertainty remains. Residents are still experiencing insufficient supply, with the government facing criticisms for inadequate measures to resolve the problem. With protests announced for March 24, there’s a clear signal that unrest is likely to escalate unless substantial progress is made in addressing the crisis.
The upcoming week will be pivotal for the government; failure to deliver on promises may lead to further demonstrations and disillusionment among Bolivians who continue to grapple with the implications of the fuel shortage. Ensuring a stable and sufficient fuel supply is not just a logistical challenge but a matter of national stability and public trust.
