The potential strike by taxi drivers in Lima and Callao is a significant concern as it unfolds against the backdrop of a natural gas supply crisis. The Yellow Taxis union has signaled intentions for a work stoppage, particularly on Thursday and Friday, due to the acute shortage of Vehicle Natural Gas (NGV) that is crucial for their operations. This scenario is underscored by a recent pipeline rupture from the Gas Transport Company of Peru in Cusco, prompting a state of emergency for 15 days.<\/p>\n
Thousands of drivers are feeling the repercussions of this crisis, with long queues at gas stations and a crippled operational capacity for many. Jhony Martel, a representative from Taxis Amarillos de Lima and Callao, emphasized that the supply shortages are preventing numerous drivers from working. The cascading effects include shortages not only of NGV but also of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and gasoline, both of which were considered alternatives.<\/p>\n
Over 230,000 taxi drivers could find themselves affected by these fuel shortages. Martel warned that the declining fuel availability could severely jeopardize the economic stability of drivers. In light of the emergency, he implored the Ministry of Energy and Mines (Minem) to formulate a strategic plan evoking daily fuel supplies, including tapping into Petroper\u00fa’s resources.<\/p>\n
In response to the looming threat of a strike, Aldo Mart\u00edn Prieto Barrera, head of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (TCM), communicated the government\u2019s proactive stance. A series of meetings with conventional transport unions were conducted to gauge their needs and reassess the actions taken to ensure service continuity.<\/p>\n
Prieto noted that while formal transport systems\u2014such as Metropolitan and corridor services\u2014are operational, the extraordinary nature of the crisis requires understanding from the transport sector. He emphasized that the government\u2019s response amidst this unforeseen event is aimed at restoring normalcy as swiftly as possible.<\/p>\n
The government remains committed to closely monitoring the situation and gathering data to adjust distribution strategies effectively. Prieto reiterated the importance of cooperation from the taxi drivers’ unions as they deliberate their next steps. <\/p>\n
With the possibility of a strike hanging in the balance, he called for collaboration, urging drivers to recognize the government’s efforts that aim to mitigate the adverse effects of this natural gas emergency. <\/p>\n
Despite signals from taxi unions regarding potential strikes, public transport in Lima notably continued without interruption on the specific day in question. Reports cited regular traffic patterns with minibuses and buses operating typically, enabling passengers to reach their destinations without significant hurdles. <\/p>\n
The government\u2019s ongoing measures and the taxi unions\u2019 pending decisions will be pivotal in shaping the immediate future of transportation within the capital. As this situation evolves, the collective aim remains to stabilize the supply while minimizing disruptions to everyday commuters.<\/p>\n