The national train from Havana to Holguín was subjected to a stone-throwing attack early Monday morning while passing through the city of Santa Clara, causing damage to a passenger car window.
The Union of Railways of Cuba (UFC) reported on Facebook that the incident occurred at 1:00 a.m. at kilometer 277.5 of the central line, near a sawmill, resulting in damage to one of the passenger car's windows.
According to the UFC, such incidents by "unscrupulous individuals" put people's safety at risk and damage the transportation infrastructure. The statement also mentioned that these actions "hinder the significant efforts made by the UFC and its railway workers to increase and maintain the technical availability of these rolling stock equipment."
In the comments section, people condemned this act of vandalism and expressed dissatisfaction with the Cuban judicial system, which they believe is too lenient on such offenders but overly harsh when it comes to prosecuting free speech. A user named Inocencio Alejandro García Castillo suggested that "in these times, there are plenty of reasons to evaluate and give the appropriate context to these acts," hinting that the stone-throwing could have a political protest background.
Meanwhile, Yarselis Despaigne emphasized that such vandalism "endangers the lives of passengers on board the train."
Recently, several public transport buses in Havana were also vandalized by stone-throwing while on their usual routes. A note published by the Provincial Transportation Company of Havana reported three separate stoning incidents on different routes.
In early May, the UFC announced the resumption of the railway route between Pinar del Río and Havana after almost four years out of service. This vital link for hundreds of travelers will now operate twice a week, with departures on Mondays and Thursdays at 9:00 a.m. from the Pinar del Río station. Return trips will take place on Tuesdays and Fridays from Havana, departing at 11:00 a.m. from the "19 de noviembre" station in Tulipán.
Key Questions about Vandalism on Cuban Trains
This section addresses some common questions and concerns regarding the recent vandalism incidents on Cuban trains, particularly focusing on the impact and response to these acts.
What was the extent of the damage to the Havana-Holguín train?
The stone-throwing incident caused damage to one of the passenger car windows.
How are people reacting to the vandalism?
Many people have condemned the act and expressed dissatisfaction with the leniency of the Cuban judicial system towards such offenders.
Could the vandalism be politically motivated?
Some commentators, such as Inocencio Alejandro García Castillo, have suggested that the stone-throwing could have a political protest background.
What other recent vandalism incidents have been reported?
Several public transport buses in Havana were recently vandalized by stone-throwing while on their routes.