Growing Concerns Among Cubans Over Deteriorating Havana Water Treatment Plant

Growing anxiety grips the residents of Havana as the condition of the city's main water treatment facility continues to decline. Reports from locals reveal that the plant, which should prioritize cleanliness and health, is in a deplorable state. A photograph shared on Facebook by Cuban citizen Dody Paz highlights the deteriorating condition of the water treatment plant. The image captures blue pipes connected to a partially submerged structure in a tank, showing clear signs of corrosion and rust buildup. The surrounding area also exhibits moisture and wear.

This image underscores the dire circumstances under which water intended for Havana's consumption is processed, echoing Paz's description: "This is where the water you drink in Havana comes from." Following the spread of this alarming report, the state-run company Aguas de La Habana responded by issuing a statement dismissing the claims as "false and malicious, intended to incite panic and discomfort among the population."

According to the company, the water reaching the Palatino tanks originates from two primary sources: the Vento aqueduct and the Cuenca Sur supply source. Aguas de La Habana's statement assures that the water is chlorinated at both the initial sources and once again after leaving the tanks towards the five municipalities served by the central system. They also mentioned that there are checkpoints to verify water quality, ensuring its safety for human consumption, with oversight from both the company and Public Health authorities.

In response to the official statements, Dody Paz issued another message on social media, standing by the truthfulness of his post and sharply criticizing the state enterprise. "After we shared an image of the deplorable state of Havana's water treatment facilities, which garnered over 3,200 comments, Aguas de La Habana posted a screenshot of our publication, claiming the image was false, despite it being taken from their own site," he remarked. He added, "They later removed it but cowardly refused a live invitation to disprove the image, acknowledged by several internet users, and to showcase the alleged malicious intent of the picture. When the dictatorship is cornered, all that's left is aggression... I'm waiting, Aguas de La Habana, if you have the courage."

Despite the official remarks, many citizens continue to express skepticism about the treatment plant's condition and the management by Aguas de La Habana. "The water that reaches our homes is not safe, and this is not a new problem," commented concerned individuals.