In San Juan, a neighborhood within the city of Matanzas, locals have raised serious concerns about the deteriorating condition of two vital bridges that connect them to the outside world. Known as the iron bridge and the pedestrian bridge, these crossings are reportedly in such poor condition that they pose an immediate threat to anyone who uses them.
The public outcry, amplified through social media by Yuni Moliner, highlights these structures as essential lifelines for the community, with no viable alternative routes available for residents.
Accompanying photos reveal alarming details: a section of the pedestrian bridge's metal grating has collapsed, exposing rotting wood beneath and rampant vegetation sprouting amidst the structural elements, all under the strain of a damp, neglected environment.
Residents report that the water pressure beneath the bridge has progressively worsened its condition. Adding to this, acts of vandalism have further damaged the paths as individuals have removed pavement slabs, exacerbating the situation.
The urgency of the issue is underscored by the fact that approximately 70 children from the community must traverse these bridges daily to reach Rogelio García López rural school, located about two kilometers away.
"Children have to cross these bridges to get to school," the community's complaint states, emphasizing the "imminent danger" and demanding action from authorities and responsible entities.
San Juan's residents are advocating for proactive measures to prevent an accident. They call for immediate repairs and safety enhancements, especially considering the daily reliance of schoolchildren on these passageways.
This situation is part of a broader crisis affecting the province's infrastructure. In August, a historic bridge in Matanzas had its metal railings stolen, exposing pedestrians and the elderly to potential hazards in what was believed to be an act of vandalism.
Back in May, the Lacret Morlot bridge in Versalles remained untouched by promised urgent repairs, despite severe cracks, moisture erosion, and an invasive ficus growing within its structure, eight months after intervention was announced.
Meanwhile, the Giratorio and Belsay bridges in Matanzas are still out of service, plagued by severe corrosion and years of neglect. Transport Minister Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila admitted in May 2025 that the Giratorio bridge was undergoing a "serious corrosion process" affecting critical structural components.
Official statistics from May 2025 stated that out of 5,914 bridges across Cuba, 74% were deemed "in good condition." However, this contrasts sharply with provincial technical reports: in Sancti Spíritus, 83% of bridges were affected, with 26% in critical condition due to a lack of planned maintenance and resource shortages.
FAQs About Bridge Infrastructure in Matanzas
What is the current state of bridges in San Juan, Matanzas?
The bridges in San Juan, Matanzas, are in a deteriorated state, posing a significant safety risk for residents, especially children who use these routes daily to get to school.
Why are the bridges in Matanzas in such poor condition?
The deterioration is mainly due to water pressure, lack of maintenance, vandalism, and resource shortages, which have led to significant structural damage.
How are local authorities responding to the bridge crisis in Matanzas?
While some acknowledgments have been made by officials, such as the Transport Minister, there has been little progress in addressing the urgent repairs needed for many bridges in the region.