A TikTok video shared by Cuban user Reinier Cruz has once again highlighted the severe crisis affecting the smaller towns across Cuba. This time, the footage captures Bejucal, located in Mayabeque province, appearing almost deserted as of 2026.
"What you're seeing is what's left of the old pharmacy in Bejucal, a once beautiful building now reduced to ruins, much like countless other structures throughout the country," narrates the young man, focusing on the dilapidated facade, visibly suffering from neglect and lack of upkeep.
As the camera pans through the town, the streets are eerily empty, with barely any signs of life or vehicles. The video creator describes the scene as that of a "ghost town," asserting that the desolation is widespread. "There's an overwhelming emptiness I never thought I'd witness in Cuba," he states.
The stark imagery is directly tied to the ongoing fuel crisis that has gripped the nation. The narrator explains that the shortage of fuel has crippled transportation and exacerbated the frequent blackouts. "Without fuel, there's no power, and uncertainty fills the streets," he points out.
The lack of electricity is compounded by the sweltering heat, which, according to the video's author, further discourages people from venturing outside. "Who would step out in such conditions?" he asks, showcasing nearly deserted avenues under the bright daylight.
Founded in 1713 and situated about an hour from Havana, Bejucal is one of the oldest municipalities in the region. The content creator recalls that it was historically a small yet bustling town. However, the current images are dominated by silence, crumbling buildings, and a noticeable absence of commercial activity.
The young man asserts that Bejucal's situation is far from unique. "If you wondered what a Cuban town looks like now, any place on the island resembles this," he suggests, indicating that the economic and energy crisis has broadly impacted entire communities.
The scenes shared on social media depict the urban infrastructure's decay, the neglect of historical buildings, and the direct impact of resource scarcity on the daily lives of Cubans.
With persistent power outages, transportation challenges, and soaring temperatures, daily routines in many of the country's towns have been drastically altered, leaving images of empty streets that starkly contrast with the social vibrancy these towns once knew.
The video has sparked numerous reactions across social networks, with users both within and outside the island commenting on the severity of the situation and sharing similar experiences from other parts of the country.
Understanding the Crisis in Bejucal and Beyond
What has caused Bejucal to appear deserted?
Bejucal looks deserted due to a severe fuel crisis that has paralyzed transportation and caused frequent power outages, leading to a lack of activity and visible neglect in the town.
How has the fuel shortage affected daily life in Cuba?
The fuel shortage has severely affected daily life by disrupting transportation, causing widespread blackouts, and contributing to a general state of uncertainty and inactivity in public spaces.
Is Bejucal's situation unique in Cuba?
No, Bejucal's situation is not unique. Many towns across Cuba are facing similar challenges due to the ongoing economic and energy crisis affecting the entire nation.