In a late-night incident on Tuesday, at approximately 11:00 pm, a bus traveling the Santiago–Camagüey route was caught in a multi-vehicle collision involving another bus and a truck along the Bayamo–Río Cauto stretch in Granma.
Reported by Julian Montoya in the Facebook group "Traffic Accidents in Cuba and Road Information," the crash resulted in no fatalities, though several passengers seated at the front sustained injuries.
Thankfully, none of the injured passengers suffered life-threatening injuries, and many expressed gratitude for "being alive" after the harrowing experience.
Photos shared from the scene reveal significant damage to one of the involved vehicles: a bus from the Empresa de Ómnibus Nacionales, which is utilized for interprovincial journeys.
The damage visible on both the front and rear of the bus indicates a direct impact collision.
Community Response: Mixed Emotions on Social Media
Comments on the post predominantly expressed relief over the lack of fatalities.
However, the incident also sparked concern about the deteriorating road conditions, frequently cited by seasoned drivers as a common cause of accidents. "That road is in terrible condition," stated a professional driver from Taxis-Cuba.
Others lamented a now-familiar consequence: each accident further depletes the already scarce transportation options available to the public.
A resident from Santiago de Cuba remarked, "Thank God there were no deaths (…) but unfortunately, we have one less transport option for our population, which is our only means of travel."
Additionally, some attributed the accident to reckless driving, particularly due to improper driving over the dividing line.
"As long as people keep driving over the white line, these accidents will continue," wrote a Havana resident.
Reflecting Broader Issues
While the report focuses on the minimal physical damage and minor injuries, the reactions underscore the frustrations of many: deteriorating infrastructure, inadequate transportation, and accidents that compound an ongoing crisis.
For those reliant on interprovincial buses as their sole mode of transport, this accident signifies another setback, extending beyond the shock of the night before.
Montoya concluded his post noting that despite the bruises, the outcome of the accident allowed them to "be thankful for staying alive." This sentiment encapsulates the mindset of many Cubans as they navigate the everyday risks of road travel.
Key Questions About Road Safety in Cuba
What caused the recent bus crash on the Bayamo–Río Cauto road?
The crash involved a collision between two buses and a truck, with road conditions and reckless driving cited as potential contributing factors.
Were there any fatalities in the accident?
Fortunately, there were no fatalities reported; however, several passengers did sustain injuries.
How does this accident affect interprovincial transport in Cuba?
The accident results in one less bus available for interprovincial travel, which is a critical issue given the already limited transportation options.