Related videos:
A Cuban was injured after the second floor of a building collapsed in the center of the municipality of Cárdenas, in Matanzas.
The building was located on Princesa, between De Céspedes and Ayllón streets, reported on Facebook the newspaper Girón, which cites the "constant theft of beams from the intermediate roof, windows, bars, and everything that could be looted" as the cause of the collapse.
The building adjacent to the La Dominica hotel, a National Monument, collapsed on its upper section, and at the time of the collapse, there were three individuals inside the structure, one of whom "sustained injuries," according to the report.
"Firefighters from the Cárdenas command assessed the condition of the building, which remains a potential collapse hazard. The highest authorities of the municipality are on-site," the information adds.
In June of last year, a portion of the upper cross of the San Antonio de Padua church in Cárdenas, collapsed right in the middle of a mass celebration for the centenary of this Catholic temple.
The incident, which fortunately did not result in any fatalities, occurred when pieces of the cross, which had been visibly deteriorating for years after being struck by lightning, broke off and fell onto the church roof during the celebration of the Eucharist. Two people sustained minor injuries and were treated immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Collapse in Cárdenas and the Housing Crisis in Cuba
What caused the collapse of the building in Cárdenas?
The collapse was caused by the constant theft of beams, windows, and grills from the building, which weakened its structure. This vandalistic act exposed the precariousness of resource management and the lack of security in the constructions on the island.
How many people were affected by the collapse in Cárdenas?
During the collapse, three individuals were inside the building, and one was injured. The incident highlights the urgency of addressing the structural deterioration of buildings in Cuba to prevent further accidents.
What is the general situation of infrastructure in Cuba?
The situation of infrastructure in Cuba is critical. More than 37% of the housing stock is in "fair or poor" condition, with a large number of buildings at risk of collapse due to lack of maintenance and institutional neglect.
How do collapses affect the Cuban population?
Landslides pose a constant risk to citizen safety, leaving many families homeless and exposed to deplorable living conditions. These events are symptoms of a structural housing crisis on the island.
What actions are being taken to prevent further collapses in Cuba?
Despite the continuous collapses, effective long-term solutions have not been implemented by the Cuban government. The lack of investment in maintenance and the prioritization of tourism projects over housing safety exacerbate the situation.
Filed under: