Three attractions at the La Mariposa Theme Park, located within the Lenin Recreational Cultural Complex, will be operational again this summer following repairs conducted by state entities, although authorities have warned that they will not have their original mobility.
The announcement was made by Ernesto Hernández Cuello, general director of the Parque Lenín Company, in statements to the Citizen Portal of Havana, cited by Tribuna de La Habana.
"The first to be operational will be the pirate ship, the little elephant, and the dinosaur," reported the executive, who specified that these attractions will be ready to provide service starting July 26th.
Regarding the issue of the energy crisis, the constant blackouts affecting the population and the limitations imposed on recreational centers, the executive did not mention the matter, which raises questions about the operation of these devices.
However, he clarified that the attractions "might not have the same mobility as before," although they are now considered functional following the recovery efforts, in which the Union of Military Industries (UIM) participated along with other companies.
Two teams are still pending repair, but the process will take longer due to their age and prolonged wear.
Hernández explained that the La Mariposa park was originally acquired with a ten-year guarantee, but its location in a wet area, under an air corridor, and exposed to acid rains has seriously deteriorated its structures.
He also noted that simpler equipment, such as inflatables, had a very limited lifespan and justified that they could not be replaced due to economic issues.
The official reminded that Lenin Park is not limited to the children's attractions area: “We have 14 Business Units, 11 in food services, and more than 9 restaurants throughout the complex,” he said.
He also mentioned the existence of swimming pools, rodeo facilities, children's recreational areas, and camping zones with new spaces equipped with umbrellas and pergolas.
"Although Parque Lenín no longer has an amusement park like it used to, it provides good dining services and offers camping, serving as the green lung of the city that we are," the official boasted.
Regarding transportation to the complex, it mentioned a train that departs from the central railway terminal to Expocuba, with a stop at the Equestrian Center. The train consists of only three carriages and has two daily schedules: at 9:00 a.m. and at 3:00 p.m.
The partial reactivation of children's attractions occurs in a context of limited recreational options for Cuban families during the summer, and it reflects the issues of maintenance, technological obsolescence, and deterioration that affect many public spaces in the country.
In 2022, the Lenin Park in Havana reopened its doors with only eight children's attractions operational.
The reopening of the popular recreational park in Havana took place on April 3, coinciding with its 50th anniversary. It was also organized to celebrate the upcoming anniversaries of the Union of Young Communists and the José Martí Pioneer Organization, as reported at that time by the state entity on social media.
In recent months, the regime has emphasized the recovery and revitalization of Lenin Park, ExpoCuba, and the National Zoo.
The Cuban Prime Minister, Manuel Marrero Cruz, reiterated in January the need to restore three of the main recreational spaces that were once iconic in Havana.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Repair of Lenin Park
Which attractions in Parque Lenin will be back in operation?
Three attractions at Parque Lenin, the pirate ship, the elephant, and the dinosaur, will be operational again this summer following repairs made by state entities. However, authorities have warned that they will not have their original mobility.
What challenges does Lenin Park face for its full recovery?
The Lenin Park is facing issues of deterioration, technological obsolescence, and lack of maintenance, which has led to the abandonment of many of its attractions. Additionally, exposure to adverse weather conditions has damaged its structures, and the economic crisis restricts the ability for complete restoration.
How does the energy crisis affect the operation of Parque Lenin?
The energy crisis in Cuba, characterized by prolonged power outages and fuel shortages, raises questions about the ongoing operation of attractions at Parque Lenin. Although the park director did not address this issue in his statements, it remains a persistent concern.
What other recreational options does Parque Lenin offer besides the attractions?
The Lenin Park is not limited to children's attractions; it also features 14 Base Business Units, 11 dining services, over 9 restaurants, swimming pools, rodeos, children’s recreational areas, and camping zones with newly enabled spaces equipped with umbrellas and pergolas.
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