Impact of the Fuel Crisis on Displaced Families in Lebanon and Syria
The ongoing fuel crisis in Syria is exacerbating the plight of displaced families, particularly those fleeing the recent Israeli aggression in Lebanon. Hundreds of families are now stranded at border crossings, facing extreme conditions as they wait for transportation to shelters or city centers. The limited availability of buses and skyrocketing transportation costs have left many families vulnerable, with some forced to endure days without adequate food or shelter.
Bashar, a taxi driver, highlighted the dire situation, stating that the price of gasoline has doubled amid the crisis, making transportation unaffordable for many displaced families. This has led to a reliance on free transportation provided by the government and non-governmental organizations, which is often insufficient to meet the overwhelming demand.
The Damascus Deputy Governor announced that several buses would be allocated to assist the displaced, but the actual number remains unclear. The Syrian Red Crescent has also stepped in to provide safe transportation, yet many displaced individuals continue to experience significant delays due to the ongoing fuel shortages.
The Broader Economic Crisis
The fuel crisis has not only impacted transportation but has also led to a broader economic downturn in Syria. Public transportation has largely ceased, and the rising costs of goods have forced many to forgo basic necessities. Employees and students are struggling to commute, with taxi fares now exceeding daily wages for many.
The price of gasoline in Damascus has surged to approximately $2 per liter, while diesel prices have increased by 150%. This has resulted in a 100% hike in transportation costs for essential goods like vegetables and fruits, further straining the budgets of millions of Syrians who are already living below the poverty line.
The World Food Programme reports that over half of Syria’s population suffers from food insecurity, with millions unable to afford basic services or necessities. As the crisis deepens, the situation for displaced families and the general population continues to deteriorate.
