The transportation sector is undergoing a transformation intended to revive public passenger services through collaboration with non-state management models.
Las Tunas, Cuba.- Reynaldo Reyes Silva, the provincial delegate for the sector, outlined the plans and mechanisms that will be implemented to reestablish traditional routes.
As the official explained, the Ministry of Transportation will issue both the Provincial Directorate and the Provincial Transportation Company a card that will allow them to purchase fuel intended exclusively for public passenger transportation. “It cannot be used for any other type of transportation,” he emphasized.
This measure is complemented by the purchase of fuel through the non-state sector, which involves a differentiated price that will allow for the use of existing infrastructure, such as existing terminals.
The delegate noted that some non-state-run operators, with the approval of municipal governments, are already operating with differentiated prices and are opening and closing routes, as is the case in “Colombia.”
Currently, the Provincial Transportation Company has an average of 132 daily routes, none of which are currently operating. The goal is to gradually reopen these services, which have come to a standstill.
The Ministry’s directive also covers the so-called “caratas” and the intermunicipal trains in Manatí and “Jesús Menéndez.” Reyes Silva expressed the intention to restore the provincial capital’s urban train as soon as possible, highlighting its extensive route and the number of passengers it carries.
One of the fundamental guidelines is that vehicles must depart from terminals and not from street corners or stadiums, as has been the case. “That is the proper place for people to board transportation,” emphasized the delegate, who added that this measure also helps prevent illegal activities.
As for the bus route connecting the municipalities of "Amancio" and "Colombia" —which reaches even the most remote communities— the possibility of leasing the route or partnering with non-state economic actors is being considered.
Finally, it was clarified that under this new scheme, benefits for students —such as paying half the fare— will remain in place, even if the fare increases. “This was a topic discussed at the meeting of delegates with the Minister of Transportation, and assurances were given that this discount will remain,” concluded Reyes Silva.
