An amusement train once cherished by families in Santa Clara has been repurposed into a public transportation vehicle for local residents amid the severe mobility crisis plaguing the nation. This transformation is a response to the acute fuel shortages and the deteriorating vehicle fleet that Cuba faces.
The small train, which used to operate solely within Vidal Park and nearby areas as a leisure activity, now serves as a connection between outlying neighborhoods and the city's center. With a seating capacity of 40, this service has emerged as an affordable and eco-friendly transportation option for the people of Santa Clara.
Mario Vallejo, a journalist from Univisión 23 Miami, highlighted this situation on his public profile, sparking a flurry of comments that reveal the Cuban public's sentiments about this unusual solution. One user remarked, "In Santiago de Cuba, there are three types of little trains; Santiago is moving backward every day."
Several comments pointed out that this is not a novel development: "In Santiago de Cuba, it has been used as transport for years," or "In Havana, there's also a train running the Vedado-Old Havana route. It's not new." The critique of the rail system's condition was a common theme: "They've destroyed the railway and its infrastructure, and now, with no tracks, they travel on roads. What a destructive government, unbelievable!" expressed another user.
Some comments mixed sarcasm with nostalgia: "Little train traveling the paths... tell me about the things you see." Meanwhile, another user confirmed, "Years ago, I used to ride it often," referring to the Santa Clara train.
The conversation extended beyond the train itself to include the broader economic context of the country. "Remember when the dollar was penalized in Cuba? Now it's trending, but not within reach for everyone," noted a critic.
This depiction of the children's train illustrates the ongoing deterioration of infrastructure and services in Cuba, a contentious topic among its citizens. In Havana, for instance, only 435 of 878 buses were operational by late 2021, representing merely 49% of the fleet. This critical situation continued, with subsequent reports indicating that less than half of the urban buses were functional, leading to long waits and crowded bus stops.
On a national scale, the crisis has deepened. By December 2024, bus terminals reportedly collapsed, with long lines and frustration among passengers due to the lack of available vehicles. The fuel crisis has stalled over half of the country's transportation routes, affecting trains, buses, and other essential services.
In Santa Clara, the scenario is equally dire. The city has faced significant challenges in its public transportation system, with a marked decrease in bus availability and prolonged wait times for commuters. Residents grapple daily with difficulties in reaching their workplaces, schools, and other vital activities, adversely affecting local quality of life and the economy.
Impact of Transportation Crisis in Cuba
What led to the transformation of the children's train in Santa Clara?
The transformation was driven by a severe mobility crisis in Cuba, characterized by fuel shortages and a deteriorating vehicle fleet, necessitating alternative transportation solutions.
How has the public reacted to the use of the children's train as public transport?
The public reaction has been mixed, with comments ranging from sarcasm and nostalgia to criticism of the government's handling of the transportation infrastructure.
What are the broader implications of the transportation crisis in Cuba?
The transportation crisis has resulted in long waits, overcrowding, and limited access to essential services, negatively impacting the quality of life and economic activities in Cuba.