A severe crisis in transportation is gripping Gaza due to a critical shortage of spare parts, caused by restrictions on their entry. This shortage has led to unprecedented increases in travel and repair costs, with the number of trucks entering Gaza being less than half of what is needed.
Local business owners express their concern over the halt of many vehicles and buses. Mahmoud Sami, a bus company owner in the Maghazi area, confirmed that buses have completely stopped operating due to rising costs, with the price of a single tire reaching 20,000 shekels (approximately 5,725 euros) and the price of a battery at 15,000 shekels (around 4,295 euros).
Details of the Crisis
According to government data, over 3,000 commercial and humanitarian trucks have entered Gaza since the ceasefire began, but the shortage of spare parts has significantly impacted the market. A mechanic from the Nuseirat camp noted that the cost of car repairs has skyrocketed from 2,000 to 17,000 shekels, while the price of engine oil has increased from 300 shekels to more than 1,000 shekels.
Economist Ahmed Abu Qamar warned that the shortage of spare parts and the lack of price regulation have allowed the black market to set prices, further burdening citizens, as travel fares between camps have risen from one shekel to five shekels.
Background & Context
Historically, Gaza has suffered from severe restrictions on the entry of essential goods, affecting the daily lives of its residents. Since the onset of the conflict in October 2023, conditions have worsened, with the market shifting from relative abundance to a severe shortage of goods, impacting civilians and emergency response teams.
Colonel Mahmoud Basal, spokesperson for the Civil Defense in Gaza, warned that the operational capacity of the agency has dropped to only 10%, with only three operational vehicles left in Gaza City, as 60% of its vehicles have gone out of service due to a lack of fuel and spare parts.
Impact & Consequences
If these conditions persist, they could lead to a complete paralysis of the transportation sector and services, hindering residents' access to hospitals and essential services. Additionally, using old or non-compliant spare parts increases the likelihood of accidents, posing an additional threat to citizen safety.
Experts have warned that the continued restrictions on the entry of goods and aid could exacerbate the shortage of spare parts, leaving residents reliant on extremely limited transportation options in their daily lives.
Regional Significance
This crisis highlights the humanitarian and economic challenges facing the people of Gaza, necessitating an urgent response from the international community. The situation underscores the need for immediate action to alleviate the suffering of the population and restore essential services.
In conclusion, the ongoing shortage of spare parts not only disrupts transportation but also threatens the overall stability of life in Gaza, demanding attention and intervention from global stakeholders.