OMM Redaksiyası
Protests and road blockades were reported across Honduras on Monday after a new nationwide fuel price increase took effect, with demonstrations in Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, Villanueva and other areas, local media reported.
According to the newspaper El Heraldo, protesters blocked streets and highways and burned tires while demanding an end to rising fuel prices. Demonstrations were also reported on roads linking Tegucigalpa with the southern and eastern parts of the country.
Fuel prices rise for 11th consecutive week
The latest adjustment marked the 11th consecutive week of fuel price increases in Honduras.
In the capital, Tegucigalpa, premium gasoline rose by 4.87 lempiras ($0.18) per gallon to 153.17 lempiras ($5.71). The price of regular gasoline increased by 2.45 lempiras ($0.09) to 135.26 lempiras ($5.04).
The government raised its temporary fuel subsidy from 65% to 70% this week in response to higher international fuel prices. However, the measure did not prevent further increases for consumers, according to the Secretariat of Energy.
Transport sector rejects national strike call
Demonstrators called for measures to contain fuel prices and criticised the impact of higher costs on transportation and household expenses.
The Honduran Institute of Land Transportation said representative organisations had not issued an official call for a national transport strike, despite the protests and blockades.
The institute said transport-sector representatives had confirmed that no suspension of services had been agreed and expressed their willingness to continue operating while holding talks with the authorities.
Transport groups have raised concerns about the effect of higher fuel prices on operating costs and requested meetings with government officials.
The government has continued subsidising some fuel products to limit the impact on consumers. Domestic liquefied petroleum gas prices remained unchanged under the temporary subsidy, while automotive LPG prices also increased.
Authorities urged protesters and transport operators to maintain dialogue as the latest fuel adjustment took effect.
