March 26, New Delhi: As the U.S. fuel blockade intensifies, the energy crisis in Cuba has raised growing health concerns. World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described the situation in Cuba as "deeply concerning." The island's aging electricity system is failing, with daily power outages of up to 20 hours in parts of the country due to a lack of fuel for generation.
No oil has been imported since January 9, impacting the power sector and forcing airlines to cut flights, dealing a severe blow to tourism. Reports indicate that Cuban hospitals are struggling to maintain emergency and intensive care services.
Meanwhile, the United Nations has proposed an emergency plan for crisis-hit Cuba, including tracking fuel use, as talks continue with the United States on allowing energy imports for humanitarian services.