La Plata faces critical GNC fuel shortage as stations close

A critical shortage of compressed natural gas (GNC) has persisted for over eight days in La Plata and the surrounding region, leaving only about 10 of the 40 usual service stations operational. The crisis has forced many stations to implement strict quotas that often sell out within an hour.

Camuzzi has identified the issue as structural, noting that sustained cold weather and high humidity have driven up residential demand. This has forced a prioritization of homes, schools, and hospitals over fuel stations. The shortage was initially triggered by technical issues at Transportadora de Gas del Sur.

The scarcity is severely impacting local workers. Taxi drivers report a 50% drop in demand as many refuse to work without fuel, given that switching to gasoline is three to four times more expensive. App-based drivers are also losing income due to fuel shortages and long wait times.

Juan Carlos Basílico, head of the Federation of Fuel Entities (FEC), has called for intervention from national and provincial governments. Fuel distributors have sent formal legal notices to President Javier Milei, the Ministry of Economy, Enargas, and Governor Axel Kicillof to demand solutions to the supply restrictions.