The Provincial Transport Company of Havana has announced the suspension of passenger maritime transport services in Havana Bay due to an accumulation of garbage following heavy rains in the region.
In a statement on its Facebook page, the state-run institution explained that the measure is necessary because it's impossible to navigate the bay due to large solid waste carried by the marine current near the Emboques. These debris pose potential damage risks to the vessels.
Cuban authorities have advised the public to contact the Emboque de Regla expedition office at (7 797 7493) for updates on when services might resume. They indicated that the service could be reinstated on June 7, provided that weather conditions improve.
This suspension coincided with an announcement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MINREX) of Cuba about the upcoming arrival of several Russian Navy ships in Havana on an “official visit.”
Between June 12 and 17, 2024, a Russian naval detachment comprising the frigate 'Gorshkov,' the nuclear-powered submarine 'Kazan,' the tanker 'Pashin,' and the rescue tug 'Nikolai Chiker' will dock at the Havana port.
The regime assured that the visit adheres strictly to international regulations and that none of the vessels carry nuclear weapons, thus posing no threat to the region.
During the Russian naval detachment's stay, a 21-gun salute will be fired from one of the ships as a greeting to the Cuban nation, reciprocated by an artillery battery from the Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR) at the San Carlos de La Cabaña Fortress.
The torrential rains in the Cuban capital have resulted in severe flooding in several municipalities, including Old Havana and Central Havana.
Impact of Maritime Transport Suspension in Havana
The suspension of maritime transport in Havana Bay due to excessive debris has prompted several concerns and questions from the public. Here, we address some of the most frequently asked questions.
Why was the maritime transport service suspended in Havana Bay?
The service was suspended due to the accumulation of large solid waste in the bay following heavy rains, which made navigation impossible and posed potential damage risks to the vessels.
When is the maritime transport service expected to resume?
Authorities indicated that the service might be reinstated on June 7, provided that weather conditions improve.
How can the public get updates on the service resumption?
The public can contact the Emboque de Regla expedition office at (7 797 7493) for updates on the service resumption.
What is the significance of the Russian naval visit to Havana?
The visit involves a Russian naval detachment arriving in Havana for an official visit, which includes a 21-gun salute and adherence to international regulations. The detachment does not carry nuclear weapons.