Pemex System Crash Sparks Cancún Fuel Chaos

Cancún, Mexico — A system-wide failure at multiple Pemex gas stations in Cancún triggered extensive vehicle queues and widespread disruption for motorists, beginning at six o’clock yesterday morning. The technical issue prevented workers at several stations from processing payments or dispensing fuel.

The failure persisted throughout the day and so far service had not been fully restored, leaving hundreds of drivers in a state of uncertainty. Traffic chaos ensued as service was suspended at numerous locations, leading to long lines of vehicles at the establishments that still had fuel available. Motorists across the city faced significant wait times to refuel their tanks.

According to Pemex workers, the problem originated with a system crash that impeded both financial transactions and the physical distribution of gasoline. Some gas station operators were able to maintain normal operations because they utilize a different system from the one that failed. This discrepancy caused confusion among users, who did not understand why they could obtain gasoline at some locations but not at others.

The scene repeated itself across different sectors of the city. During a survey of the area, endless lines, frustrated drivers, and groups of motorists coordinating via social media to identify functioning stations were observed. Several individuals interviewed stated they had visited up to four different gas stations before successfully filling their tanks.

Among the most affected were taxi drivers. Some had to push their vehicles while in line after running out of fuel, while others organized themselves to notify each other about which locations had service and which did not, in an attempt to save time and fares. The disorder also generated traffic jams on main avenues, as drivers double-parked or encroached on traffic lanes to avoid losing their place in line, further complicating the flow of traffic.

The Pemex station at Plaza Mis Héroes and the one located on Portillo Avenue, near Uxmal, were among the most crowded during the contingency. The Full Gas stations on 20 de Noviembre Avenue and at the intersection of Tierra Maya and Ruta 5 were also overwhelmed, with lines extending for several blocks and forcing motorists to wait for extended periods.

As of now, Pemex has not issued an official statement regarding the causes of the system failure or an estimate for how much longer it might persist. Meanwhile, motorists remain vigilant for any updates and continue to coordinate among themselves to avoid being left without fuel.