A motorbike burst into flames on Cuba's Central Highway as it passed through the city of Ciego de Ávila, causing a temporary diversion of traffic along this crucial route.
"Ciego de Ávila, I don't know the details," a user from the Facebook group ‘Accidentes Buses & Camiones’ reported, sharing a video of the incident that occurred on Thursday at the intersection of Central Highway and 3rd Street in the city.
The footage shows the vehicle engulfed in flames while a crowd of onlookers watches the scene. On the Central Highway, a police patrol temporarily halted traffic, redirecting cars and buses away from the area, as seen in the video.
It remains unclear whether firefighters responded to extinguish the blaze or what caused the fire. Such incidents have become a common sight in urban Cuba. The rise in the number of electric motorbikes, the ongoing fuel crisis, and the shortage of spare parts and proper maintenance contribute to the frequency of these fires.
In mid-April, a major fire destroyed the garage of a house in the Ranchuelo municipality in Villa Clara province due to a malfunction in an electric motorbike's battery. Just a week prior, another Cuban family's home was burned down following an electric motorbike explosion, with firefighters arriving two hours after the blaze started.
Key Issues Regarding Motorbike Fires in Cuba
The following questions address the critical issues surrounding the increasing incidents of motorbike fires in Cuba.
What are the main causes of motorbike fires in Cuba?
The main causes include a rise in the number of electric motorbikes, the ongoing fuel crisis, and a shortage of spare parts and proper maintenance.
How have recent motorbike fires affected Cuban communities?
Recent motorbike fires have led to property damage, including the destruction of homes and garages, and have caused significant disruptions in daily life.
What measures are being taken to prevent motorbike fires in Cuba?
Currently, there are limited measures in place due to the country's economic challenges, but ensuring proper maintenance and using quality spare parts could help mitigate the issue.