Despite the collapse of the National Electric System (SEN) on Wednesday, the Cuban government has announced that transportation services are still operational, albeit under challenging conditions and with special measures in place. Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, the Minister of Transportation, stated on Facebook that international airports are maintaining the 70 scheduled flights for the day, including 37 at Havana's José Martí International Airport.
The Minister highlighted that this is made possible through the use of their own energy backup systems, ensuring services for both passengers and aircraft. In terms of bus services, the National Bus Company has confirmed that the 158 planned national trips will take place, alongside 18 Viazul trips and 5 Medibús services, the latter designated for patients needing medical care in other provinces.
Furthermore, Rodríguez mentioned that national trains are set to depart, with the Habana-Holguín train leaving at 7:20 PM and the Guantánamo-La Habana train at 3:40 PM. He promised to provide more details on transportation services amidst this new "electric contingency" in upcoming communications.
While the government strives to maintain an appearance of normalcy in transportation services, the country's situation reveals a crisis extending beyond just electrical issues, deeply affecting the living conditions of its citizens. On Wednesday, José Martí International Airport communicated through social media that, despite the massive blackout, the facility—the largest and most significant in Cuba—remains operational.
"Despite the recent disruption of the National Electric System, our airport terminals continue to function," they announced. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Energy and Mines shared on social media that morning that they had begun the gradual restoration of the SEN through the "creation of islands," a strategy used during two previous collapses.
In a post on the MINEM's X account, Vicente de la O Levy explained that "the conditions are more favorable than during the last disconnection," adding that the execution of procedures has not been hampered by any hurricane. Additionally, the Cuban government has suspended classes and non-essential work due to the new general blackout that commenced early this morning.
FAQs about Cuba's Power Outage and Transportation
How is Cuba managing to keep flights operational during the power outage?
Cuba is utilizing its own energy backup systems at airports to ensure that flights can continue as scheduled, despite the power outage.
What measures are in place for bus services during the blackout?
The National Bus Company is proceeding with its planned trips, including those for Viazul and Medibús, under special measures to cope with the blackout.
Are train services affected by the power outage in Cuba?
Train services are still operational, with scheduled departures for routes such as Habana-Holguín and Guantánamo-La Habana.