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A post by the Cuban Mely Parra on Facebook has sparked public outrage after revealing the dire conditions under which a deceased person was transported in the municipality of Guisa, in the province of Granma.
Due to the lack of an available hearse, the family had to improvise the transportation in a vehicle for Flora and Fauna, without the minimum requirements for such a solemn occasion.
"What have we come to!" Parra lamented in his statement, accompanied by images that depict the sad event. "It is shameful, frustrating, and heartbreaking to see that some devastated and grieving family members cannot even give their loved one a dignified farewell," he added.
The Cuban expressed her frustration over the growing deterioration of her municipality, where even basic funeral services are not available.
This case highlights a situation that is not isolated in the country. The official newspaper Invasor recently acknowledged the serious deficiencies in the funeral services of Ciego de Ávila, including delays in the transportation of the deceased, issues with the quality of coffins, and the lack of maintenance in funeral homes and cemeteries.
In that province, of the 19 funeral cars they had, only eight are operational, while the others remain inactive due to breakdowns or are in the process of being decommissioned.
In municipalities such as Baraguá and Venezuela, there are currently no vehicles available, which forces the coordination of transfers from other locations.
The shortage of spare parts and the lack of proper maintenance are some of the factors that have exacerbated the funeral transport crisis in Cuba.
Events like the one that took place in Guisa highlight the added pain that families must endure when facing the death of a loved one amid so many hardships. "I hope that one day my Cuba can change," Parra expressed, voicing the yearning of many on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Funeral Services Crisis in Cuba
What is the current situation of funeral services in Cuba?
The situation of funeral services in Cuba is critical due to the lack of operational hearses, a shortage of spare parts, and poor maintenance. This issue affects multiple provinces, forcing families to use improvised transport for burials, as has occurred in Guisa, Manzanillo, and other localities.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address the funeral crisis?
The Cuban government has taken isolated measures, such as the introduction of an electric hearse in Havana, but these actions are insufficient to address a structural crisis in the country's funeral service system. The lack of resources and poor management continue to impact Cuban families during critical times.
How does the funeral crisis affect Cuban families?
The funeral crisis adds an extra layer of pain to Cuban families who are already dealing with the loss of a loved one. The lack of adequate transportation and dignified services forces families to seek makeshift solutions, such as using trucks and carts, and to face a lack of respect in times of mourning.
What do Cuban citizens think about the government's handling of this issue?
The general consensus among Cuban citizens is one of frustration and discontent towards the government's handling of funeral services. Many criticize the lack of priorities and resources allocated to essential services, while they observe how investments are made in other sectors such as tourism. Indignation is expressed on social media, where an immediate solution to this problem is demanded.
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