In the midst of one of the worst economic crises that Cuba has faced in decades, with fuel shortages, prolonged blackouts and a collapsed transportation system, the regime does not stop its political machinery.
This time, several streets in the Plaza de la Revolución municipality will be closed to vehicular traffic starting Monday, April 14, due to preparations for the commemorative event for the 64th anniversary of the proclamation of the socialist character of the Cuban revolution, which will take place on Tuesday, April 16 at the intersection of 23 and 12.
According to the Provincial Road Safety Commission's report on the social network Facebook, the organizational measures aim to ensure safety during the event, which once again allocates resources and state mobilization to promote a political system that has increasingly less support among the population.
Closed streets and disruptions
From Monday, April 14, at 8:00 p.m.:
23rd Street, between Paseo Avenue and 12th Street, closed in both directions.
Since Tuesday, April 16, at 4:00 a.m.:
12th Street, between 17 and Zapata.
14th Street, between Zapata and 17th.
Streets 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10, between 21 and 25.
23rd Street, from Paseo to Prolongación de Zapata.
Recommended alternative routes: Malecón, Línea, 17, 19, and Zapata.
Modified transport routes
While many Cubans spend hours waiting for a bus due to the lack of fuel and spare parts, the government has prioritized the reorganization of public transport for this political event:
Routes 55, 71, 222, P-4, and P-9 (from Playa) will use Prolongación de Zapata and Calle B to rejoin Avenida 23.
Routes from the Malecón via 23: take Paseo → 19th Street → Paseo → Zapata → Prolongación de Zapata.
Routes A27, A33, and 34 (via 12th Street): Starting at 4:00 a.m. on the 16th, diverted via Línea → Paseo- 24-27- A-Zapata Street.
National crisis versus official propaganda
The execution of this type of event stands in stark contrast to the reality faced by millions of Cubans: blackouts lasting over 12 hours, hospitals without supplies or emergency transportation, streets filled with garbage, and a country virtually paralyzed by a lack of resources.
Despite this, the regime continues to spend what little remains on fuel, logistics, and police deployment for political activities, whose purpose is to reinforce a system that an increasing number of citizens consider obsolete and imposed.
While there is no gasoline for ambulances or school transportation, the government is mobilizing resources to pay homage to socialism, even though the majority of the people no longer believe in the rhetoric or the promises.
The Provincial Road Safety Commission asked for "understanding" regarding the inconveniences, but the people, exhausted and without options, find it hard to comprehend the priority still given to propaganda over the actual urgent needs of the country.
Frequently Asked Questions about Street Closures in Havana and the Crisis in Cuba
Why will streets in Havana be closed starting April 14, 2025?
The streets in Havana will be closed due to preparations for the commemorative event of the 64th anniversary of the proclamation of the socialist character of the Cuban revolution, which will take place on April 16 in the Plaza de la Revolución municipality.
How does the closure of streets affect transportation in Havana?
The street closures significantly impact transportation in Havana, as the usual bus routes have been altered. The government has prioritized the reorganization of public transport to ensure mobility during the political event, diverting several routes to alternative streets.
What is the context of the economic crisis in Cuba in relation to these political events?
Cuba is facing one of the worst economic crises in its recent history, characterized by shortages of food, medicine, and fuel, as well as a widespread collapse of basic services. Despite this, the regime continues to allocate resources for political events aimed at reaffirming the socialist system.
What do Cuban citizens think about these political mobilizations amidst the crisis?
Many Cuban citizens criticize the organization of these political events, considering that it diverts essential resources needed to address the real urgencies of the country, such as food and health. The criticisms also focus on the government's disconnection from the daily needs of the population.
What other measures has the government taken in the context of the current crisis?
The Cuban government has implemented measures such as the use of the Ticket app for purchasing fuel at certain gas stations, aimed at organizing the supply amid shortages. These measures have been criticized for not addressing the root causes of the crisis and for imposing additional restrictions on citizens.
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