A Cuban couple recently shared several videos on Instagram (losaventurerosgarcia) that highlight the alarming deterioration of the Carretera Central, one of the most iconic and frequently used roads in the country.
The images and comments captured during the journey depict a bleak scenario: deep potholes, nearly impassable stretches, visible neglect, and the constant danger faced by those forced to travel along this route.
"Adventurers! Look at this. It seems we are tangled, tangled in the largest mountain in the world, on the worst road in the world,” begins one of the motorcycle occupants, while recording the state of the road, in what appears to be a stretch between Santa Clara and Cabaiguán, in Sancti Spíritus.
The progress on the motorcycle is evident as they struggle to avoid the enormous potholes. “That little cart in front of us didn’t know which way to go,” they add, reflecting the uncertainty and risk that each kilometer traveled entails.
Throughout the video, travelers describe how this road has been practically forgotten, overshadowed by the regular use of the National Highway, which is also suffering from deterioration. "The highway is what is most used, but it is also in bad shape. This one has gotten even worse,” they explain.
One of the most revealing moments of the testimony is when they point out the old milestone markers installed by the workers who built the Central Highway. "This has the exact kilometers, but the problem is that it’s no longer visible. It's not visible anymore, you know," they lament, highlighting the neglect of both the infrastructure and its basic signage.
The narrative blends irony, indignation, and resignation, but it also reveals the weariness of living in a country where the roads, like other public services, are on the brink of collapse. "Between the blackouts and the potholes in the road, this is a total problem," declares one of the travelers.
Far from being an explicit complaint, the video is part of a series of hobbyist publications by the creators, who enjoy traveling along roads, recording their journeys, and showcasing to Cubans abroad corners of the country that feel dear or familiar to them. However, the deterioration of the road, evident in every second of the footage, stands out as a message in itself.
The Centrale Highway, inaugurated in the 1930s and considered the largest civil project undertaken during Gerardo Machado's presidency, was for decades the most important transportation route in the country, connecting the west and east. Its zero point is located at the Capitolio Diamond.
Today, according to testimonies like this one, it reflects the accumulated deterioration of the national infrastructure, lacking proper maintenance and without a governmental response to a situation that directly affects road safety and the daily lives of thousands of Cubans.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Deterioration of Road Infrastructure in Cuba
What is the current status of the Central Highway in Cuba?
The Central Highway of Cuba is in a critical state of disrepair, with deep potholes and sections that are nearly impassable, posing a constant danger to those traveling on this route. Recent testimonies highlight the visible neglect of this important road infrastructure.
How does the deterioration of road infrastructure affect safety in Cuba?
The deterioration of road infrastructure in Cuba severely affects road safety, increasing the risk of accidents due to potholes, lack of signage, and poorly maintained structures. The neglect of roads and bridges endangers the lives of thousands of Cubans who must travel these routes daily.
What other infrastructure problems does Cuba face besides the roads?
In addition to the roads, Cuba faces infrastructure problems with bridges, buildings, and basic services. There are reports of bridges in poor condition, dilapidated buildings, and deteriorating public spaces, which reflects a widespread lack of maintenance throughout the country.
How has the Cuban government responded to the complaints about the poor condition of the roads?
The Cuban government has shown a limited response to the complaints regarding the poor state of the roads, which increases the risk of accidents and highlights the urgent need for maintenance and repair of the road infrastructure in the country. Authorities have not provided effective solutions to the issues reported by citizens.
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