On Saturday, a video circulated on social media showing a man filling barrels at a water distribution point in Havana, where a tank is now sold for up to 2,500 pesos on the informal market.
The footage, shared on Facebook by Maykel Chapotín, highlights an increasingly common reality in the Cuban capital, where access to water often relies on purchases from the informal market.
The complaint accompanying the video reveals that a 55-gallon water tank (equivalent to 208 liters) costs between 2,000 and 2,500 pesos, nearly matching a month's minimum wage in Cuba, set at 3,210 CUP since July 1.
The High Cost of Water in Havana
The situation is even more dire for those who need an entire water truck. In early July, a resident of the Mantilla neighborhood reported that a private delivery could cost as much as 40,000 pesos.
Just days later, a woman from Marianao claimed prices had soared to 45,000 pesos, compared to around 7,000 pesos in March.
Data gathered in July shows offers ranging from 18,000 to 26,000 pesos for water trucks carrying 8,000 to 10,000 liters, with some areas experiencing prices as high as 50,000 pesos due to severe shortages.
Mounting Frustration Among Residents
Frustration is mounting among those affected. "How long will this shamelessness continue? They take away our power, our water. What else will they take?" questioned a young woman from Marianao recently as she complained about the lack of supply in her area.
The deterioration of services is attributed to underlying structural issues. A staggering 87% of Havana's pumping system relies on electricity, with blackouts lasting between 22 and 30 consecutive hours.
Out of 480 pumping stations across the country, only 135 have circuits protected from power outages. Moreover, 40% of the equipment is in poor condition, and the system operates with just 37% of the necessary fuel.
Challenges of an Aging Infrastructure
Compounding the problem is the aging water infrastructure. In cities like Havana, between 40% and 70% of pumped water is lost before reaching households due to leaky pipes.
The number of people affected continues to rise. In April, Aguas de La Habana specialists reported about 200,000 residents impacted, which increased to 376,055 in May and over 500,000 by July.
Nationwide, approximately 2.7 million Cubans face daily challenges accessing water.
This shortage has heightened social tensions. The Cuban Observatory of Conflicts documented 107 protests in June, the highest monthly figure since records began, with many demonstrations linked to the lack of water and prolonged power outages.
In San Miguel del Padrón, neighbors clashed over a bucket of water when a single water truck had to supply the entire community, while some resorted to using water from septic tanks.
Recently, a video emerged showing a state water truck driver dumping water onto the ground in San José de Las Lajas, sparking outrage on social media.
On Friday, a group of women blocked the Calzada de Diez de Octubre, demanding solutions to the power cuts and water shortages.
In stark contrast to this scenario, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel visited the Libertad Defense Zone in Marianao, where he touted the creation of reservoirs and the use of water trucks as improvements in water supply, despite the fact that over half a million Habaneros still lack regular access to services.
Understanding Cuba's Water Crisis
What is the current price of water tanks in Havana?
Water tanks in Havana are being sold for up to 2,500 pesos on the informal market.
How has the water shortage impacted Havana residents?
The shortage has led to increased prices for water supplies and heightened social tensions, with numerous protests and community conflicts over access to water.
What are the main causes of the water supply issues in Havana?
The water supply issues stem from structural problems, including reliance on an inconsistent electrical supply, outdated equipment, and a deteriorating water infrastructure.