The Minister of Transportation, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, issued a statement this Thursday following the recent acts of vandalism against public transport buses in Havana, while also denying rumors about a supposed suspension of transportation service during early morning hours.
In his statement, Rodríguez Dávila described as “false” the publications that circulated on digital social networks, which claimed that the nighttime transportation service had been eliminated in the Cuban capital. “There is no such suspension,” he assured, although he acknowledged that the services are severely limited due to the scarce availability of fuel.
The minister explained that, despite the difficulties, 63 buses have been successfully recovered thanks to a recent purchase of tires and batteries. Additionally, he reported that key parts are arriving in the country from China that will enable the comprehensive repair of 100 vehicles in Havana's public transportation system.
Regarding vandalism, Rodríguez Dávila was adamant. “It is not a new phenomenon and is usually dealt with rigorously”. He emphasized that those who commit such acts of aggression do not consider the serious consequences that can arise, not only for the vehicles and the service, but also for the lives of the passengers and the drivers themselves.
"Their authors have the utmost disdain of our people, and they will face the consequences that such actions deserve," the minister warned, adding that further details about these incidents and the measures taken will be provided in upcoming publications.
In recent months, Havana has experienced a troubling increase in vandalism against public transportation, particularly through stone-throwing at buses in service. These incidents have raised alarm among authorities and the public, further affecting an already deteriorated transportation system.
One of the most recent cases occurred on April 22nd, when bus 5248 on route 37 was stoned during its early morning route in the Santos Suárez neighborhood, in the municipality of 10 de Octubre.
A few days earlier, the bus 8421 on route P8 suffered a broken rear window while following its regular route, taking it out of service. Meanwhile, at the end of March, the bus 5229 on route 23 was attacked with stones on Avenida Bélgica, near the National Museum of Fine Arts. The impact shattered the glass of the left side window, next to the driver's seat.
The same day that incident occurred, another bus on the P7 route was attacked in the Cotorro municipality, highlighting a concerning series of assaults against public transport in the Cuban capital.
In January, a student threw stones at the bus 8445 of the P-11 route following an argument with the driver, resulting in the arrest of the young person involved.
The authorities have condemned these acts and urged the public to report any aggression or damage against urban buses and their facilities. However, the incidents are recurring with alarming frequency, reflecting the growing social tensions and the deterioration of the transportation system in Havana
Frequently asked questions about vandalism against public transport in Havana
What measures is the Cuban government taking in response to the vandalism against buses in Havana?
The Cuban government has strongly condemned the acts of vandalism and has promised to enhance surveillance to prevent these incidents. Furthermore, the authorities have urged the public to report any aggression or damage against urban buses and their facilities by contacting the National Revolutionary Police (PNR) when witnessing such events.
What are the consequences of vandalism in public transportation in Havana?
Vandalism has worsened the critical situation of public transport in Havana, where there is already a shortage of operational vehicles. These incidents not only damage buses but also impact the mobility and safety of passengers, creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty. Furthermore, they reflect the rising social tensions and the frustration of the population with the deteriorating transport system.
Is the nighttime bus service in Havana in danger?
There is no suspension of the night bus service in Havana, as clarified by the Minister of Transport, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila. Although the service is limited due to fuel shortages, it remains operational. The posts circulating rumors about a suspension have been denied.
What actions are being taken to repair the damaged buses?
The Minister of Transport reported that, despite the difficulties, 63 buses have been successfully recovered thanks to the acquisition of tires and batteries. Additionally, key parts are arriving from China that will enable the comprehensive repair of 100 public transport vehicles in Havana.
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