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A light drizzle was enough to flood several streets in Havana this Saturday, in yet another example of the collapse of the sewage system, residents of the Cuban capital reported.
The Cuban photographer Sergei Montalvo Aróstegui stated on that flooding has been reported in Cuatro Caminos and Centro Habana due to drainage issues.
"The same neighbors are the ones who have to take action to clear the blockage in the drains so that the water can flow and the street can be navigated," she wrote, along with videos of the flooding.
Citizen frustration is directed at the state institutions responsible for maintenance, such as Comunales and Aguas de La Habana, which are being held accountable for the lack of cleanliness in the drainage systems.
"What are the competent authorities doing?" he questioned.
Just a few days ago, flooding was reported on the Calzada del Cerro, where videos shared by the independent media outlet CubaNet showed the iconic avenue transformed into a river, with water reaching the doorways of homes.
Urban flooding has become a part of daily life for the people of Havana. Just two weeks ago, heavy rains caused the collapse of streets and homes in several municipalities, and a tragic collapse in El Cerro resulted in the death of a five-month-old baby.
Meanwhile, the residents of Havana insist that the drains be cleaned and the sewage system be renewed.
Frequently Asked Questions about Flooding in Havana
Why does Havana flood with light rain?
Havana floods even with light rains due to the collapse of the sewage system, which is outdated and overloaded. It was built for a population much smaller than the current one, and the lack of maintenance and cleaning, along with the accumulation of garbage, exacerbates the issue.
What measures are the authorities taking to address the flooding issue?
The authorities have received international cooperation to improve infrastructure, such as acquiring pumping equipment and building new sections of sewage systems. However, citizens criticize that the solutions are neither sufficient nor fast enough to address the magnitude of the problem.
What consequences have the recent floods had in Havana?
Flooding has caused significant damage, including flooded homes, trapped vehicles, and, tragically, the death of a baby due to the collapse of a wall in their home. Furthermore, criticism toward the government has increased due to the lack of effective solutions and the deterioration of urban infrastructure.
What is the role of garbage in the flooding of Havana?
The accumulation of trash in the streets blocks the drains, worsening flooding. The lack of an efficient garbage collection service contributes to the streets turning into rivers during rainstorms, increasing the risk of flooding and health issues.
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