Policy

New York Begins Gas Rationing

Hundreds of thousands of homes still have no power

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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.