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A massive garbage dump is growing day by day in the heart of Vedado, Havana, directly across from the historic residence of Dulce María Loynaz, winner of the Miguel de Cervantes Prize in 1992 and one of the most prominent figures in Cuban literature.
At the intersection of 19th Street and E, the scene is lamentable, as the situation not only affects the image of the emblematic building, which has been transformed into the Dulce María Loynaz Cultural Center, but also reflects the state of deterioration in the management of public services in the city.
On the social media platform Facebook, user Pedro Luis García shared images of garbage buildup, creating a health hazard in the area and overshadowing a space that should honor the memory of the writer.
Dulce María Loynaz, author of the renowned novel Jardín and celebrated for her extensive poetic work, lived in that house for decades, transforming it into a cultural center where she welcomed artists and intellectuals. Today, the building is a cultural heritage site, but neglect threatens to tarnish its legacy.
A similar scene can be seen at the once-iconic Teatro Musical de La Habana, a venue that once shone as a cultural epicenter, now lies completely abandoned, turned into a dump in Centro Habana.
Another huge dump on a corner of Havana is infested with rats and other pests, while the authorities fail to address the issue.
A local resident sent photos to CiberCuba to report what is happening on their block on Marino Street, between San Pablo and Auditor, in the Cerro municipality.
Trash collection in Havana is facing a critical crisis due to, among other reasons, the poor condition of the garbage trucks, many of which are out of service because of a lack of tires, batteries, and other essential parts.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Trash Crisis in Havana
What is the current situation regarding the accumulation of trash in Havana?
The waste situation in Havana is critical, with large accumulations of garbage at various points in the city, creating unsanitary conditions and a heightened risk of disease. The crisis is worsened by the poor condition of the garbage trucks and the lack of resources for their repair.
What impact does the accumulation of garbage have on the public health of the people in Havana?
The accumulation of garbage severely affects public health, promoting the proliferation of rats, flies, and mosquitoes that transmit diseases such as dengue and the Oropouche virus. Unsanitary conditions have become a serious problem with implications for the health of hundreds of thousands of people in Havana.
What are the main causes of the garbage crisis in Havana?
The causes of the garbage crisis in Havana include a lack of resources, the deterioration of garbage trucks, and inefficiency in management by the Cuban government. As a result, only 68% of the waste generated in the city is collected, leaving a significant amount of garbage in the streets.
What measures are being taken to address the garbage crisis in Havana?
The Cuban government has sought support from foreign investors to improve waste management, but residents still do not see concrete and effective solutions. Furthermore, a budget has been approved to acquire parts for repairing the trucks, although the situation remains significantly unresolved.
How is the accumulation of garbage affecting the iconic sites of Havana?
The accumulation of trash negatively affects landmark sites such as the residence of Dulce María Loynaz and the Musical Theatre of Havana, overshadowing their cultural and historical value. These places, which should be spaces of tribute and culture, are surrounded by debris that tarnishes their legacy.
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