Cuba Water Crisis Deepens as 3M People Face Daily Shortages

DID Press: Authorities in Cuba say nearly three million people are experiencing daily shortages of drinking water as fuel constraints severely disrupt national water supply systems.

Cuban officials reported that a worsening fuel crisis has reduced the operational capacity of key infrastructure, including water pumping stations and distribution networks.

According to the National Institute of Water Resources, the country’s water system is currently operating with only about 37% of the fuel it requires, forcing many pumping stations to run at reduced capacity.

As a result, water distribution to several regions has become irregular and frequently interrupted, raising concerns over public health and living conditions.

Authorities also noted that the water sector is among the most energy-dependent in the country, and fuel shortages have further hampered maintenance work, pipeline repairs, leak control, and facility cleaning operations.

In addition, limited foreign currency and import restrictions have reduced access to essential water treatment chemicals, potentially affecting the safety of drinking water supplies.

The Cuban government attributes the crisis largely to energy constraints linked to sanctions imposed by the United States, which it describes as an “energy blockade.”

Officials warn that if the situation persists, structural problems in the country’s water infrastructure could further deteriorate.