The proliferation of garbage and leaking sewage waters is a grim reality in several neighborhoods of Santiago de Cuba, with no solutions provided by the regime. The Diario de Cuba portal published a video on Facebook last Friday showing an enormous trench in the middle of the street, stretching for several dozen meters, from which black water emerges.
"The stench of sewage and clogged drains floods Santiago de Cuba," the news outlet pointed out, indicating that this situation is prevalent in areas such as Los Pinos, Los Olmos, and San Pedrito, affecting children and the elderly in the community.
At another point in the video, accumulated trash is visible on one of the streets in the Los Olmos area, very close to a children's park and a biosaludable gym, places where children usually play.
In recent days, the government of Santiago de Cuba province has faced numerous criticisms due to poor management in addressing sanitation issues.
Water Supply Crisis and Health Risks
Recently, the crisis with the water supply in Santiago de Cuba has driven people to extreme measures, such as collecting precious water directly from a street leak, compromising its quality and safety, and putting lives at risk.
The regime admitted last Monday that the population was being affected by an outbreak of an unknown viral disease in two municipalities, and at least eight people were hospitalized due to this cause. According to a statement published on Facebook, the cases were reported between May 12 and May 18 in the municipality of Songo-La Maya, as well as in the Carlos J. Finlay and Ernesto Guevara de la Serna health areas, both located in the main municipality.
Although the Provincial Health Directorate in Santiago de Cuba only mentioned the eight hospitalized patients, independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta recently alerted about the viral disease outbreak, noting that at least 20 people were hospitalized. He indicated that around 300 people had confirmed that the population was being affected and also noted cases in the town of Santa María, in the main municipality.
FAQs on Santiago de Cuba's Sanitation Crisis
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the ongoing sanitation crisis in Santiago de Cuba, aimed at providing more insight into the situation.
What areas in Santiago de Cuba are most affected by the sanitation issues?
The neighborhoods of Los Pinos, Los Olmos, and San Pedrito are among the most affected by the sewage and garbage problems.
How has the water supply crisis impacted residents?
The water supply crisis has forced residents to collect water directly from street leaks, endangering their health and safety due to compromised water quality.
What are the health consequences of the current situation?
The poor sanitation and water supply issues have led to an outbreak of an unknown viral disease, with at least eight people hospitalized and many more affected.
What has been the government's response to the sanitation crisis?
The government's response has been criticized as inadequate, with no effective solutions provided to address the ongoing sanitation and health issues.