A person died this Sunday following a collapse in Old Havana.
The collapse occurred at 9 this morning in a building located at Sol Street #466, between Egido and Villegas, reported the Administration Council of Old Havana on Facebook.
The official statement asserted that the building "had not met construction standards for several years, and there were individuals present illegally, many of whom had been offered relocation to other locations, which they did not accept in a timely manner."
"We regret the loss of an individual in the incident. The authorities of the territory arrived immediately and are attending to the rest of the individuals," they concluded.
Landslides in Havana
The incident occurs amid a series of similar collapses that have struck Havana in recent weeks.
At the beginning of September, at Belascoaín #105, there was a progressive collapse that has left dozens of families in suspense. The complaints regarding the absence of officials at the site following the incident sparked outrage on social media.
Days later, another partial collapse in San Lázaro, between Oquendo and Márquez González, affected 14 people amidst a critical situation of blackouts caused by the collapse of the national electroenergy system (SEN).
The collapse occurred in a circulation corridor on the first floor of a building declared irreparable by the authorities. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, but the incident once again highlighted the lack of government response and prevention.
In mid-September, a partial collapse occurred in a building located on Industria Street, between San Rafael and San Miguel, in the Centro Habana municipality, leaving three people injured, including two minors and one adult.
In mid-August, the collapse of a building at the central corner of San Rafael and Galiano (very close to the collapse on Tuesday)
In that case, the collapse pulled down the ceilings of the building from the top floor to the ground floor, trapping several people among the rubble. Neighbors reported that the building had been declared uninhabitable for years, but no preventive measures were taken beyond cosmetic fixes to the façade.
These incidents are not isolated events. A pattern emerges of century-old homes, damaged by leaks, humidity, rains, and overpopulation, abandoned by the state.
Frequently Asked Questions about Collapses in Old Havana
What are the causes of the collapses in Old Havana?
Collapses in Old Havana are primarily caused by the structural deterioration of buildings, lack of maintenance, and heavy rainfall. Many structures are old and exhibit issues with humidity and leaks that worsen their condition. The economic crisis and the focus on tourist investments contribute to the neglect of at-risk housing.
What measures have the Cuban authorities taken in response to the collapses?
Authorities usually go to the site of collapses to address immediate emergencies, but they have not implemented a comprehensive maintenance or relocation plan for at-risk families. The solutions are often temporary and do not tackle the underlying issue, leaving many families in vulnerable situations.
Why is an urgent maintenance plan necessary in Havana?
A maintenance plan is urgently needed to prevent further collapses and protect the lives of residents. The age of the buildings, combined with the humid climate and lack of investment in housing infrastructure, puts many properties on the brink of collapse, endangering thousands of people.
What consequences do collapses have for the residents of Old Havana?
Collapses have serious consequences such as loss of life, injuries, and families left homeless. Additionally, they create a constant state of fear and anxiety among residents, who live with the uncertainty of a potential collapse at any moment.
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