The iconic La Farola Viaduct, often praised by the socialist regime as one of the top engineering marvels in Cuba, is finally slated for its first major overhaul in 59 years. State-controlled media has acknowledged that this crucial mountain road, stretching 154 kilometers and linking Sagua to Baracoa, hasn't seen a comprehensive repair since it was built in 1965. The long-awaited renovation comes in the wake of damage caused by Hurricane Óscar, which led to landslides and road subsidence, compounded by decades of continuous use.
However, the extensive repair work will not commence immediately. Specialists from Holguín's Vértice, a company specializing in engineering and design services, must first conduct a thorough assessment of the necessary repairs. In true bureaucratic fashion, this preliminary study is expected to take about a month. Ironically, the complex road was originally constructed in just 20 months, from April 1964 to December 1965.
For the refurbishment of the La Farola Viaduct, 40 trucks and bulldozers, currently out of commission, must be restored to operational status. Given the severe fuel shortages plaguing the island, this only adds to the skepticism surrounding the project's timeline. According to Cubadebate, these vehicles are immobilized due to a lack of essential parts like batteries, lubricants, and tires, underscoring the chronic financial issues.
The state entity, the Provincial Road Center, will fund the extensive repairs. Authorities now claim they will assign a dedicated maintenance team for the viaduct. Yet, Cubadebate has not clarified whether such a team previously existed or explained how this engineering "marvel" fell into neglect, despite handling 98% of Baracoa's inbound and outbound traffic and 83% of cargo transport.
During the repair period, heavy traffic will be rerouted through the Guantánamo-Sagua-Moa-Baracoa roads, which are also under construction, as reported by the local newspaper Venceremos. Initially, while awaiting the diagnostic results for La Farola, work will commence on a section of the viaduct in Cagüeybaje.