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Protest Erupts in Fontanar Amid Long-Lasting Power Outages in Havana

Saturday, September 5, 2026 by Michael Hernandez

Protest Erupts in Fontanar Amid Long-Lasting Power Outages in Havana
Residents protest in Fontanar after several days of blackouts and the police deploy patrols - Image © Video screenshot Facebook/José Raúl Gallego

A nighttime demonstration broke out on Friday along Boyeros Avenue at the entrance of Fontanar, a neighborhood in Havana's Boyeros municipality. This event was captured in real time by journalist José Raúl Gallego, who shared videos of the gathering on Facebook.

The footage reveals many individuals gathered on the wet street, illuminated by recent rainfall, in a scene filmed from a nearby vantage point. Gallego succinctly described the unfolding situation: "Happening now. Protest on Boyeros Avenue, at the entrance to Fontanar. Havana."

Shortly after, in a follow-up video, he reported the arrival of law enforcement: "The protest in Fontanar continues. I've been informed that the police have arrived, with around 10 patrol cars."

Location and Cause of Protest

Fontanar is a residential area situated at the junction of Rancho Boyeros Avenue and Wajay Avenue, close to the José Martí International Airport. The area's A940 electrical circuit has been experiencing disruptions due to a generation shortfall since September 1, sparking prolonged blackouts that likely triggered the protest.

This demonstration adds to a series of protests that have recently swept through Havana, highlighting the increasing discontent among residents.

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Understanding the Protests in Havana

What sparked the protest in Fontanar?

The protest in Fontanar was primarily triggered by extended power outages caused by a generation shortfall affecting the A940 electrical circuit.

How did the authorities respond to the protest?

The authorities responded to the protest by deploying around 10 police patrol cars to the scene, as reported by journalist José Raúl Gallego.

Where is Fontanar located?

Fontanar is a residential neighborhood located at the intersection of Rancho Boyeros Avenue and Wajay Avenue, near José Martí International Airport in Havana.

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