A chain explosion rocked a street in Central Havana this Thursday after a garbage collection truck accidentally severed some electrical wires while performing its duties. Cubanet reported that the incident occurred on San Miguel Street, between Rayos and Galiano, when the garbage truck, while removing the accumulated trash from the public road, damaged wires hidden under piles of rubbish.
These wires belonged to a branch of the Banco Metropolitano, causing a short circuit that extended to the ATMs on the San Rafael Boulevard. As a result, the entire area, including the bank, was left without power.
Havana is facing an alarming situation due to the massive accumulation of garbage, worsened by a shortage of fuel, personnel, and collection equipment. The city only collects 68% of the waste generated, leaving the rest on the streets, creating breeding grounds for infections and increasing the risk of fires due to the release of methane gas.
Only about 40% of this waste is recovered for recycling, leaving a significant volume of trash in public spaces, worsening the already grave epidemiological situation on the island, with the proliferation of rats, cockroaches, and mosquitoes.
Unable to manage this crisis, Havana’s authorities have opted to hire a private company to improve waste collection in some critical areas of the capital. However, residents of neighborhoods like Luyanó, where the situation is particularly dire, continue to await concrete solutions. They live amidst mounting trash, foul odors, and unsanitary conditions, with growing desperation among neighbors.
Understanding Havana's Waste Management Crisis
As Havana struggles with waste management issues, here are some common questions and answers to provide a clearer picture of the situation.
What caused the explosion in Central Havana?
The explosion was caused by a garbage collection truck severing electrical wires hidden under piles of trash, leading to a short circuit.
How severe is the waste accumulation issue in Havana?
Havana collects only 68% of its generated waste, leaving significant amounts on the streets. This situation is exacerbated by a lack of fuel, personnel, and collection equipment.
What measures are being taken to address the waste management crisis?
The authorities have hired a private company to improve waste collection in critical areas, but many neighborhoods are still awaiting effective solutions.