An elderly woman, aged 78, sustained injuries and was taken to a hospital on Friday following the partial collapse of the building housing Havana's Higher Institute of Design (ISDI). State journalist Lázaro Manuel Alonso reported on his Facebook page that the woman was injured by falling debris. Thankfully, no other casualties have been reported, he noted. However, four families have been displaced from their homes due to the building's structural damages.
"Construction companies are on-site working to clear approximately 800 cubic meters of debris," Alonso detailed. The building, located in Centro Habana, had been declared in a state of collapse in the affected area about four months ago, he added. Since that declaration, gradual demolition efforts were being carried out by the construction company GECAL.
This afternoon, the side of the building completely gave way, as evidenced by videos shared on Facebook. Authorities from the regime confirmed that the compromised area had previously been identified as at risk due to significant structural failures. The interior facade of the structure had been shored up since 2022 and was closed following a partial collapse in July 2024, although the rest of the building remained habitable.
The ISDI was shut down in March 2022 due to a "complex architectural failure" that posed a safety threat to students and staff. To continue classes, the faculties were temporarily relocated to other facilities within the University of Havana. As of this Friday's incident, no official statement has been released by the authorities, although it has been confirmed that construction teams are actively working to remove the substantial debris.
Originally constructed in 1860 and having undergone several renovations throughout its history, the building has hosted the Institute since 1984, when it acquired its current name. The structure, with its varied past uses, stands as a significant heritage asset for the city.
Frequently Asked Questions about the ISDI Building Collapse
What caused the building collapse at the Higher Institute of Design in Havana?
The collapse was attributed to significant structural failures in a section of the building that had been previously identified as vulnerable.
Were there any other injuries reported besides the elderly woman?
No, there were no other casualties reported apart from the injured elderly woman.
What measures are being taken to address the debris from the collapse?
Construction companies are currently working on-site to clear around 800 cubic meters of debris.