The government of Santiago de Cuba seems to ignore the adage "forewarned is forearmed," as past incidents like those at Finca de los Monos in Havana appear to have been forgotten. This oversight could lead to repeated mistakes with the organization of parties in a coastal zone not certified for swimming.
The warning was posted on Facebook by Aris Arias Batalla, Provincial Head of Operations and Rescue, Aquatic Safety in Santiago de Cuba. He shared a promotion for a party in the coastal area of Aguadores, cautioning that "it is not a beach, it is not certified as a public bathing area."
Traditionally, locals have used this area for swimming, a fact known both to the lifeguard issuing the alert and the local government. There are even several dining establishments nearby.
Arias explained that this "is a coastal zone with significant risks and vulnerabilities. Beyond the reef bank lie deep waters, undertows, and it's open sea. Moreover, just a few meters away, liquid waste from the San Juan River, communities, and state entities with storm drains flow into this river or ditch. All of these discharge into Aguadores."
He also pointed out that the seabed is bordered by a natural area known as a cliff, which leads to deep waters. "For these reasons and many more, it does not qualify as a beach," the lifeguard emphasized.
Following the incidents at Finca de los Monos in Havana, the regime claimed to be unaware of the activity and certainly did not authorize it. However, this was debunked when one of the organizers appeared on national television to discuss the event, affirming that the local government was aware.
Now, in Santiago de Cuba, "tropical parties" are being organized in a location not certified for swimming, once again demonstrating the regime's inaction.
Incidents involving fatalities in coastal areas are not isolated events. Just last May, three young people drowned in Santiago de Cuba.
The first incident occurred at Sardinero Beach, which is also not officially certified as a swimming area, resulting in the deaths of two young individuals.
The second tragic event was reported at La Estrella Beach, a small coastal stretch near El Morro, where one young person lost their life.
FAQs on Coastal Safety Issues in Santiago de Cuba
Given the recent concerns about coastal safety in Santiago de Cuba, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers to help you understand the gravity of the situation.
Why is Aguadores not certified as a public bathing area?
Aguadores is not certified due to its significant risks and vulnerabilities, including deep waters, undertows, and liquid waste discharge from nearby sources.
What happened at Finca de los Monos in Havana?
At Finca de los Monos, an unauthorized event led to significant safety concerns, and the regime initially claimed to be unaware of the activity. This was later proven false.
Are there certified swimming areas in Santiago de Cuba?
There are some certified swimming areas, but many popular spots like Sardinero Beach and La Estrella Beach are not officially certified, posing risks to swimmers.