Buenos Aires has been hit by a notes and coins shortage, leaving cash machines empty and public transport services in chaos, according to local press reports.
Argentina's capital has been running low on cash since the end of last month, with some public bank ATMs unable to dispense notes, says the Buenos Aires Herald. Around 400 people have been forced to go to the government to get their wages.
Meanwhile, some banks had to stop giving customers change in coins, causing chaos on buses and trains. This morning, commuters who use the Sarmiento train line travelled for free after ticket office staff went on strike in protest at the problem.
The shortage is being blamed on "technological problems" and reluctance on the part of Argentina's central bank to distribute large amounts of cash to local banks, says the paper.
Bank note shortage leaves cash machines empty - Buenos Aires Herald