Once again, Cuba's railway system has been hit with another setback. Just three days after the passenger train known as "El Espirituano" suffered an accident near Placetas, a freight locomotive derailed in Villa Clara this past Saturday. This incident caused a significant delay for the national train traveling from Holguín to Havana.
The derailment took place at 2:50 a.m. on November 8, as reported by the Minister of Transport, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila. The extra train 83, with locomotive 52501 and 22 container-laden cars, went off the tracks at kilometer 264.6 of the Central Line, near Esperanza station in Santa Clara.
Fortunately, no injuries or major infrastructural damage were reported. However, the mishap led to a suspension of service on the country’s main railway line for over four hours, disrupting the journey of dozens of passengers traveling from Holguín to Havana.
Transport authorities dispatched locomotives from Santa Clara and Jovellanos to resume services and have established an investigative commission to determine the cause of the accident.
The Cuban Railway Directorate expressed regret to the travelers and confirmed that the locomotive has been moved to workshops for technical inspection.
Consecutive Accidents Raise Concerns Among Cubans
This latest derailment occurs just days after the "El Espirituano" train—operating on the Havana–Sancti Spíritus route—derailed on November 5 in Villa Clara, near the municipality of Placetas.
In that incident, one of the four cars in the convoy derailed approximately 500 meters from the Cumbre station. Although none of the 80 passengers were injured, they had to be transported to their final destination in Sancti Spíritus by bus.
An Alarming Pattern: Derailing Trains and Waiting Passengers
Derailments have become increasingly common in Cuba, affecting both freight and passenger trains. Experts and users alike point to the deteriorating state of the railway infrastructure, lack of maintenance, electrical and mechanical issues, and shortages of essential materials as the primary causes of this series of accidents.
Additionally, acts of vandalism targeting the lines and stations contribute to the fragility of a system that was once a symbol of modernity but now struggles to maintain operations.
While the government promises preventive measures and new investments, passengers continue to travel with the fear of being stranded in the middle of the country.
Understanding Cuba's Railway Challenges
What caused the recent freight train derailment in Villa Clara?
The exact cause of the derailment is under investigation. However, common issues such as poor infrastructure maintenance, mechanical problems, and material shortages are often contributing factors.
How are transport authorities responding to the derailment?
Authorities have dispatched locomotives to restore service and have set up an investigative commission to understand the derailment's cause. They have also apologized to affected passengers.
Are train derailments frequent in Cuba?
Yes, derailments have become more frequent in Cuba, affecting both freight and passenger trains, mainly due to infrastructure issues, lack of maintenance, and other operational challenges.