Cuba warns cabbies not to raise fares
None
HAVANA- Cuban authorities warned Friday that they will pull the licenses of private taxi drivers who raise fares, amid recently announced energy restrictions that have many islanders bracing for difficult months ahead.
The mostly 1950s-era American cars that function as collective taxis cost as little as about 40 cents and are a key transportation option with bus service lacking in many areas, and people have complained of rates doubling on some routes.
The warning comes as officials have slashed many fuel allotments for government vehicles by half and ordered state buildings to shorten the workday and cut back on air conditioning use. Officials say the restrictions are necessary in part because of the political and economic crisis afflicting Venezuela and a reduction in the amount of oil Cuba receives on preferential terms from its South American ally.
