Another garbage dump caught fire this Thursday near the "La Plaza" market on Aguilera Street in Santiago de Cuba, a city grappling with a waste management crisis. This incident follows several fires set by residents in the area, who, frustrated by the inefficient collection of solid waste in the province, have resorted to burning the dumps as a desperate measure, reported local journalist Yosmany Mayeta.
Firefighters arrived at the scene after receiving multiple calls from residents and managed to extinguish the flames. Neighbors are voicing their complaints about the lack of effective response from the authorities and the prolonged absence of communal services to collect the garbage.
Escalating Incidents of Fires
Mayeta also reported a recent fire near a kerosene sales stand, adding to a series of similar incidents in Santiago de Cuba in recent weeks. A few weeks ago, residents of the Reparto Militar "Las Flores" also set fire to a garbage dump in protest of the waste accumulation in their community.
The waste crisis in Santiago is part of a broader issue affecting other cities in the country. A recent study in Havana revealed that the equivalent of three Olympic-sized pools of garbage is left uncollected each day, creating an environment conducive to the spread of diseases.
Understanding the Waste Management Crisis in Santiago de Cuba
Here are some frequently asked questions to help understand the waste management crisis in Santiago de Cuba and its broader implications.
What triggered the recent fires in Santiago de Cuba?
The recent fires were triggered by residents frustrated with the inefficient waste collection services, leading them to set fire to garbage dumps as a desperate measure.
How have the authorities responded to these incidents?
Authorities have been criticized for their lack of effective response and the prolonged absence of communal services to collect the accumulating garbage.
Is this waste management issue unique to Santiago de Cuba?
No, the waste management issue is part of a broader problem affecting other cities in Cuba, including Havana, where large amounts of garbage remain uncollected daily.
What are the health implications of this waste crisis?
The accumulation of garbage creates an environment conducive to the spread of diseases, posing significant health risks to the community.