Radio Guamá, the provincial radio station of Pinar del Río, announced this Wednesday changes to its programming due to the escalation of the energy crisis affecting the western region of Cuba.
According to the station itself on its Facebook profile, starting this Wednesday, the National Television News (NTV) will be broadcast daily at its regular time of 8:00 p.m., as an alternative due to difficulties in receiving television signals in several municipalities.
"The radio has more technological capabilities than other media to reach the entire provincial geography," the station explained, justifying that this decision aims to facilitate access to information in the current conditions.
Additionally, it was announced that the Mesa Redonda program would be broadcast this Wednesday, during which officials from the Ministry of Energy and Mines and the Electric Union discussed the status of the national electrical system and the measures planned for its recovery.
The measure recalls the times of the Special Period in the 90s, when radio played a central role due to the inability to watch television because of a lack of electricity.
It also recalls the protocols used in emergency situations, such as hurricanes, where the use of radio is prioritized due to its wider coverage and lower energy dependence.
With this decision, it is confirmed that the energy crisis in Cuba has escalated to worrying levels and is likely to persist, forcing authorities to implement communication mechanisms typical of times of disaster.
Radio Guamá reaffirmed its commitment to keeping the public informed “even in difficult circumstances,” and left open the possibility of making new adjustments as the situation evolves.
The first secretary of the Provincial Committee of the Communist Party (PCC) in Pinar del Río, Yamilé Ramos Cordero, had to face a citizens' protest on Saturday, May 17, in the Hermanos Cruz neighborhood, known as "El Calero," in the capital city, where residents took to the streets with pots and slogans to express their dissatisfaction with the blackouts.
The protesters, visibly upset, denounced the lack of electricity for several hours a day, amid a wave of blackouts affecting much of the country.
In videos shared on social media, Ramos Cordero can be seen trying to contain the protest and engage in dialogue with some of the participants.
One of the most tense moments was captured in a video shared by journalist José Raúl Gallego, where a neighbor confronts the party leader, demanding fair treatment in the distribution of power outages.
"Perhaps from this perspective, we are not the most affected, because we know that the neighboring municipalities are also impacted. However, from the Pinar del Río area, specifically the municipality of Pinar del Río, I believe that P526 is one," he told the party leader.
The official had previously responded to concerns by saying that "they had to wait for the country to have oil to solve its problems," a response that was met with boos and disappointment by those present.
The energy crisis in Cuba continues to worsen. The Electric Union (UNE) reported this Thursday that the country is experiencing a significant electric generation deficit, which has forced the continuation of widespread blackouts over the past 24 hours.
The situation has sparked social unrest, with new protests reported in the eastern part of the country.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Energy Crisis in Pinar del Río and Cuba
Why will Radio Guamá in Pinar del Río broadcast the National Television News?
Radio Guamá will broadcast the National Television News due to the energy crisis affecting television signal reception in several municipalities of Pinar del Río. This measure aims to ensure access to information amid the current challenges.
What is the current situation of the National Electric System in Cuba?
The National Electric System (SEN) of Cuba is facing a significant generation deficit, with frequent and prolonged power outages. The deficit has reached critical levels, surpassing 1,700 MW, due to breakdowns in thermal power plants and a shortage of fuel.
How do blackouts affect daily life in Pinar del Río?
Blackouts in Pinar del Río have left many homes without electricity for long hours, affecting daily activities such as cooking, studying, and working. The lack of electricity hinders basic tasks, causing stress and frustration among the population.
What measures are the Cuban authorities taking in response to the energy crisis?
Cuban authorities have implemented measures such as broadcasting television programs via radio and optimizing the use of generators during critical times. However, the response has been insufficient, and the population continues to face prolonged blackouts and a lack of effective solutions.
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