A new fire caused by an electric motorcycle raised alarms in the Cuban capital on Friday, when the vehicle caught fire on Avenida Italia, known as Galiano, one of the busiest roads in Havana, between Zanja and San José, in front of the local bank.
The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning and was captured in a video shared on social media, in which several explosions from the battery can be heard amidst the flames.
"Sir, right now, look, it's being burned here in Galiano… an electric motorcycle, my people, it caught fire completely," narrated a witness who recorded the scene on Facebook.
The danger of motorbikes
In another video shared on Facebook, the arrival of a fire truck at the scene is shown.
Apparently, the flames did not spread, and there were no reports of injuries.
However, the situation rekindles public concern over the alarming rise in fires associated with motorcycles and electric tricycles in Cuba in recent years.
These vehicles, which have become an essential means of transportation in light of the fuel crisis and the shortcomings of public transport, have turned into a latent risk due to technical deficiencies, the use of low-quality parts, and the improper handling of their batteries.
Recent cases and fatal consequences
The incident involving Galiano adds to an increasingly long list:
In July, in Holguín, an electric motorcycle exploded inside a residence, causing a fire that, thanks to the swift actions of the firefighters, did not result in any casualties.
In June, a similar incident on 17th Street and J, in Vedado, caused a fire on the second floor of a building.
A month earlier, an electric tricycle caught fire inside a home in Las Tunas, causing serious material damage.
In April, in Zaza del Medio, Sancti Spíritus, the explosion of a motorcycle caused a fire that claimed the life of an elderly man confined to bed.
Testimonies and social media posts reveal that while in some cases only material damage is reported, in others the outcomes have been tragic, resulting in loss of human lives.
A growing dilemma
Although there are no official statistics published, reports from independent media and citizens indicate dozens of fires each year related to electric motorcycles on the island.
The issue cannot be resolved with simple warnings: it involves a phenomenon where the pressing need for mobility among Cubans converges with the scarcity of safe alternatives and the lack of strict regulations regarding the quality of these devices and their batteries.
The fire in the heart of Centro Habana on Galiano not only disrupted the routine of one of the city's busiest avenues, but it also highlighted a worrying reality: the dependence on motorinas as a transportation solution has turned into a ticking time bomb for many Cuban families.
Frequently Asked Questions about Electric Scooter Fires in Cuba
Why are electric motorcycles catching fire in Cuba?
Electric motorcycles in Cuba catch fire mainly due to technical deficiencies, the use of low-quality parts, and improper handling of their batteries. The use of defective lithium batteries and informal repairs are common causes of these fires. Additionally, unstable electrical conditions and overloading during nighttime charging also contribute to the fire risk.
What are the consequences of motorcycle fires in Cuba?
Motorbike fires in Cuba have caused significant material damage and, in some cases, have resulted in the loss of human lives. The explosion of batteries has destroyed homes and, at times, has resulted in the death of individuals present at the site. These incidents also raise concerns among the population and authorities due to their increasing frequency.
What measures can be taken to prevent electric motorcycle fires?
To prevent electric motorcycle fires, it is crucial to perform regular maintenance with qualified personnel, avoid overloading outlets, and ensure that electrical systems comply with current safety standards. It is important to allow a cooling period for the batteries before charging them and to avoid prolonged charging. It is also recommended to keep the motors away from flammable materials.
How has the transportation crisis in Cuba impacted the use of electric motorcycles?
The transportation crisis in Cuba, exacerbated by fuel shortages and the precariousness of public transport, has led many Cubans to turn to electric motorcycles as an essential means of mobility. However, this dependence has increased the risk of fires due to the lack of strict regulations and safe alternatives. The urgency for mobility and the lack of safe options have made scooters a necessary yet dangerous solution.
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