New York Begins Gas Rationing

Hundreds of thousands of homes still have no power

New York City began rationing gasoline on Friday for the first time since the energy shortages of the 1970s, seeking to ease a fuel crisis brought on by Superstorm Sandy.

The former hurricane hammered the U.S. East Coast on October 29, killing at least 120 people and causing an estimated $50 billion in damage or economic losses.

It also disrupted the fuel supply chain, creating hours-long waits for gasoline that led officials first in New Jersey and now New York City and Long Island to impose rationing. Cars with odd- and even-numbered license plates will be able to buy gas and diesel fuel on alternate days.