Cuban denounces the deterioration of the Almendares Bridge in Havana: "Let's not wait for a tragedy to happen."

The deterioration of the historic Almendares Bridge in Havana has raised concerns among citizens following a report made by a Cuban user through a post on the social media platform Facebook.

"I want to raise an alert: this is how the Almendares bridge looks from below. This is a real danger. Let’s not wait for tragedy to happen," said the user identified as Oscar Zulueta Abreu in the Facebook group ‘Accidentes Automovilísticos en Cuba’.

In his post, accompanied by images showing visible structural damage, Zulueta Abreu issued an urgent call to prevent a disaster and the deterioration of a vital infrastructure for vehicular traffic in the capital.

An icon in danger

Built in 1911, the Almendares Bridge, also known as the 23rd Bridge, is a pioneer of Cuban engineering, being one of the first reinforced concrete viaducts in the country.

This structure was designed to connect Havana with the areas of Miramar, Marianao, and other emerging zones at the time. While it once represented a technological advance and a source of pride for the city, today it faces a troubling state of disrepair that threatens both its integrity and the safety of those who use it.

Visible damage and potential risks

The images shared by Zulueta Abreu show areas of the bridge with large sections of concrete missing, exposing steel bars corroded by time and weather conditions. These conditions indicate significant deterioration that requires urgent interventions to prevent accidents.

The bridge is not only a key traffic artery for the city, but it also represents a historical legacy of over a century. Despite its importance, maintenance has been neglected, according to whistleblowers, which raises fears of a potential collapse.

Citizen concern

This report has sparked concern on social media. Users are urging local and national authorities to conduct a thorough assessment of the infrastructure and to carry out immediate repairs.

"We can no longer ignore these issues. The Almendares Bridge is part of our history, but more importantly, it poses a risk to the lives of those who use it," commented a user.

The 23rd Street Bridge is not just a transportation route in Havana; it is also a testament to the city's urban development in the 20th century. Its preservation is essential not only for mobility but also for protecting the historical heritage and the safety of the residents of Havana.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Deterioration of the Almendares Bridge in Havana