Havana's streets are currently overwhelmed with heaps of garbage, obstructing vehicle movement, forcing pedestrians to walk over waste, and turning the city into a breeding ground for diseases. The most recent complaint came from Facebook user Dora Ester Arce Valentín, who shared a video depicting the harsh reality of Cuba's capital.
"How long must we endure these disease hotspots? If the municipal government can't handle it, they should call Public Health or the Armed Forces. Someone must take responsibility for resolving this!" Arce Valentín demanded, echoing the frustration of many Cubans living amid piles of accumulated trash.
The waste not only spills onto sidewalks and roads but also reaches the doorsteps of homes, creating unsanitary conditions that endanger the citizens. Vehicles face challenges navigating and, in some instances, must detour to avoid streets blocked by trash.
This issue isn't new; it has been progressively worsening over the decades. The government claims to be working on projects with various international organizations, yet none have materialized. In November 2024, leader Miguel Díaz-Canel faced criticism after posting a photo on social media depicting an idyllic image of Havana on its 505th anniversary, ignoring the city's visible decay.
"Congratulations, beautiful Havana. For you, to heal the wounds left by the hurricane and those opened by relentless time, we will work tirelessly every day," he wrote, sparking a wave of criticism from citizens who accused him of being out of touch with reality.
"'Beautiful Havana?'... What nerve! Today we have a Havana filled with rubble, crumbling buildings, water leaks, sewage running through its streets, and foul dumps in its avenues... Is that what you call beauty?" a user responded.
Days later, Esteban Lazo Hernández, president of the National Assembly of People's Power, urged Havanans to personally take charge of cleaning the streets in their neighborhoods and around workplaces, rather than critically addressing the poor management of public services.
Meanwhile, Havana remains engulfed in trash, with its streets transformed into open-air landfills and its residents struggling to survive amid filth and neglect.
Frequently Asked Questions about Havana's Waste Crisis
What is causing the garbage crisis in Havana?
The garbage crisis in Havana is primarily caused by a combination of inadequate waste management infrastructure, poor public services, and a lack of effective governmental action.
How are residents affected by the trash problem?
Residents are affected by unsanitary conditions that increase health risks, hinder pedestrian and vehicle movement, and degrade the quality of life in the city.
Has the Cuban government taken steps to address the issue?
While the government claims to be working with international organizations on projects, there has been little tangible progress in resolving the crisis.