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Cuban authorities provided clarification regarding the incident that occurred this Saturday at the intersection of Zapata and Paseo, in El Vedado, where a motorcyclist fell into a hole following the pavement collapse.
According to the official outlet Radio Taíno, the accident did not occur exactly on the sidewalk, as initially reported, but rather in the courtyard of a multi-family building where, years ago, there was a pit that was sealed without the necessary safety measures.
Over time, that improvised structure weakened until it gave way under the weight of the motorist and his motorcycle, causing the collapse.
Fortunately, the driver survived the incident and was taken to the hospital for medical precaution, with no serious injuries reported.
“A tremendous scare”: neighbors recount the moment of the collapse
Neighbors of the building claimed that the noise was so loud that it “sounded like the ground had opened up.” Some rushed to help the motorcyclist, managing to rescue him before the arrival of the firefighters and the Integrated Medical Emergency System (SIUM).
The images of the incident, which quickly spread on social media, show the enormous hole that swallowed part of the pavement and exposed a dangerous cavity beneath the ground.
Old structures, new risks
The incident has reignited concerns about the deterioration of infrastructure in Havana, where many old buildings hide pits, tanks, or weakened foundations that pose a constant risk to residents.
Although this time there were no fatalities, the incident once again highlights the lack of maintenance and structural control in the older urban areas of the capital.
“Today it was a hole, tomorrow it could be a building”, lamented a local resident, summarizing the fear shared by many Havana citizens regarding the visible deterioration of the city.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Accident at Zapata and Paseo, Havana
What caused the accident at the intersection of Zapata and Paseo?
The accident was caused by the collapse of the pavement in the courtyard of a multifamily building in El Vedado, where a motorcyclist fell into a hole. The pavement structure had weakened over time and could not support the weight of the motorcyclist and his motorcycle.
Did the motorcyclist suffer serious injuries in the accident?
No, the motorcyclist did not suffer serious injuries. He was taken to the hospital only as a medical precaution, and no serious injuries were reported.
What is the state of the infrastructure in Havana?
The accident has highlighted the deterioration of infrastructure in Havana. Many old buildings show pits, tanks, or weakened foundations, which poses a constant risk to residents and pedestrians in the city.
What measures have been taken to prevent this type of incident in Cuba?
Despite the obvious risk, no effective measures have been reported by the Cuban authorities to address the systemic problem of infrastructure deterioration. The lack of maintenance and structural oversight remains a critical issue in the aging urban areas of the capital and other cities in Cuba.
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