Residents of the busy Reina Street in the Centro Habana municipality halted traffic as a protest against the ongoing water shortage and the government's poor management in resolving the issue. The demonstrators blocked Reina Street at the intersection with Galiano Street, a route heavily used by cars and public transport buses.
"The protesters demanded water supply, even if it had to be delivered by water trucks," reported the independent media outlet Cubanet, covering the event. In a video, Transtur buses are seen halted in front of the demonstrators, who placed water buckets as barricades to prevent the buses from continuing their journey.
The police arrived at the scene, and residents were heard voicing their complaints, although it is the government authorities who are responsible for resolving the issue. "It's incredible that just a few days ago, Havana was flooded due to heavy rains, and now these residents of Reina Street have been without water in their homes for a month. Just another day in this so-called prosperous and sustainable socialism," wrote user Mayra Domínguez on X.
This marks the second protest in less than a week in Havana due to the lack of water. Last Monday, residents of Old Havana gathered at the intersection of Egido and Acosta Streets to protest a water shortage that had affected them for over ten days, as the government had not provided any solutions. The protest began at 9 PM, and residents blocked the street with stones and water buckets.
Witnesses confirmed that the protesters only retreated to their homes when a water truck, dispatched by the municipal government and escorted by the police, finally arrived.
Water Shortage Protests in Havana: FAQs
In light of the recent protests in Havana over water shortages, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
Why are Havana residents protesting?
Residents are protesting due to prolonged water shortages and the government's ineffective response to the crisis.
Where did the latest protest take place?
The latest protest occurred on Reina Street at the intersection with Galiano Street in Centro Habana.
How did the residents block the street?
Residents used water buckets as barricades to block the street and halt traffic.