The Provincial Road Safety Commission of Havana announced a new partial closure of the Bay Tunnel, this time in the Cabaña-Havana direction, due to scheduled maintenance and conservation work taking place from May 9 to 11, 2025.
The closure will begin on Friday the 9th at 9:00 a.m. and will remain in effect until the completion of the work on Sunday the 11th.
According to the official information posted on Facebook, these are actions aimed at ensuring safe mobility and improving road infrastructure.
The authorities announced that during this period, the opposite direction (Havana-Cabaña) will be alternately opened, under the supervision of traffic agents, to ease vehicle congestion.
Nonetheless, they recommend the use of alternative routes, such as Vía Blanca, Avenida 26, Avenida Boyeros, Anillo del Puerto, Avenida del Puerto, and Malecón.
The tunnel, through which around 32,000 vehicles circulate daily, has been subject to recurring closures in recent years.
In September 2024, it was closed for drainage work after intense rains caused by Hurricane Helene, and earlier, in January, it had undergone another maintenance session.
The constant interruptions have caused frustration among drivers and residents of the city, who question the effectiveness of previous repairs.
Social media comments are denouncing that the preliminary work has been superficial, focusing on painting or minor patches without addressing the structural drainage issue.
"The drainage system is not functioning, and what they did was throw on some paint. That was the entire repair," expressed a user after the last flooding of the tunnel.
Built over 65 years ago, the Bay Tunnel is one of the most iconic works of road infrastructure in Havana. Its last major renovation took place in 2001 by the same French company that originally constructed it.
Despite the repeated rehabilitation efforts, the authorities acknowledge that this is aging infrastructure requiring ongoing interventions, but they insist that the current work is essential to ensure road safety.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Partial Closure of the Bay Tunnel in Havana
Why will the Bay Tunnel in Havana be partially closed?
The partial closure of the Bay Tunnel in Havana is due to scheduled maintenance and conservation work from May 9 to May 11, 2025. Authorities aim to ensure safe mobility and improve road infrastructure.
What traffic alternatives will be available during the tunnel closure?
During the partial closure of the tunnel, the opposite direction of the tunnel (Habana-Cabaña) will be alternately opened, supervised by traffic agents. Additionally, it is recommended to use alternative routes such as Vía Blanca, Avenida 26, Avenida Boyeros, Anillo del Puerto, Avenida del Puerto, and Malecón.
What is the current situation of the Bay Tunnel infrastructure?
The Bay Tunnel, constructed over 65 years ago, faces structural issues and requires ongoing interventions due to its aging. Although it has undergone several repairs, the constant disruptions have created frustration among drivers and residents of the city.
How does the state of the sewage system affect flooding in Havana?
The poor condition of the sewage system in Havana significantly contributes to flooding as it cannot effectively drain water during heavy rains. This is worsened by the accumulation of garbage in the streets, blocking drains and sewers.
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