Cuban authorities have imposed a fine on a self-employed worker who damaged a public sidewalk by removing tiles and creating a hole to benefit his business. The incident took place in Havana, at the intersection of the bustling Carlos III Avenue and Oquendo Street. The Municipal Assembly of People's Power in Centro Habana revealed the illegal act on their Facebook page.
Photos depict the man creating an opening in the wall of his establishment, seemingly to drain water, and since there was a distance to the sidewalk, he had to cut through the pedestrian pathway. This violation was discovered by Lourdes Otero, the president of the Pueblo Nuevo Council, along with Alain Blanch, the chief of traffic.
The individual responsible, a self-employed entrepreneur, was taken to the Zanja Police Station. There, he received a fine of 7,000 pesos and an official warning. Additionally, he was instructed to restore the sidewalk to its original condition immediately.
The situation sparked reactions on social media, where one user remarked that such occurrences are "common practice." She pointed out that her neighborhood has several spots with unrepaired holes for extended periods. She also noted that a project near the Cuatro Caminos market has been unfinished for over nine months, while other nearby streets awaited completion for two years.
Impacts of Public Infrastructure Alterations in Havana
What actions were taken against the self-employed worker in Havana?
The worker was fined 7,000 pesos, received an official warning, and was required to restore the sidewalk to its original state.
How did the public react to the sidewalk alteration incident?
Social media users expressed that such incidents are common, highlighting ongoing issues with unrepaired infrastructure in their neighborhoods.
Who discovered the illegal modification of the sidewalk?
The illegal act was identified by Lourdes Otero, president of the Pueblo Nuevo Council, and Alain Blanch, chief of traffic.