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In light of the ongoing increase in vandalism against public transportation in Cuba, the authorities have urged the population to report any acts of aggression or damage to urban buses and their facilities.
The official profile of Facebook “Transportación Habana TH” acknowledged this Saturday that, in recent days, new acts of violence and destruction of public property have been reported in Havana and other provinces, a problem that has persisted for years and is raising concerns once again.
The attacks not only affect the vehicle fleet, which is already deteriorated, but also impact the precarious service that thousands of citizens receive who depend on state transportation for their daily mobility.
The call for citizen reports includes a plea to immediately contact 106, the number for the National Revolutionary Police (PNR), in the event of witnessing such incidents.
It is also recommended, if possible, to record relevant details that may assist in identifying those responsible.
"The guilty must pay dearly for their actions," reads the post from the official profile, appealing to collective awareness and social responsibility in the face of violence and the deterioration of transportation.
Violence against buses and terminals —already affected by a shortage of parts, lack of maintenance, and structural problems within the system— further worsens the public transport situation on the island, one of the sectors most impacted by the economic crisis.
In addition to the call for reporting, a message of respect and collaboration among passengers, drivers, and sector personnel is promoted, aiming to preserve the scarce existing resources and contribute to a safer and more functional environment in public spaces.
In the early hours of last Friday, a bus on the P7 route was stoned in the municipality of Cotorro, in Havana. The attack caused damage to the glass of a left-side window of the vehicle, identified as bus 725, which forced the driver to stop and file a report with the local police.
This incident was just one of the many reported by the Provincial Transport Company of Havana, which has urged the public to assist in reporting these acts to prevent their recurrence.
Just hours later, on the same day, another incident occurred on Avenida Bélgica, near the National Museum of Fine Arts, when a bus on route 23, number 5229, was attacked with stones while it was in service.
The left side window of the driver's side was damaged, and the driver went to the Dragones station to file a report. Authorities confirmed that this was the second incident recorded in less than 24 hours, reflecting the concerning rise in violence against public transport in the capital.
The following day, the wave of vandalism continued with a new attack on a bus in service, once again displaying the same pattern of damage: broken side windows and a direct threat to the safety of the driver and passengers.
The Provincial Transportation Company of Havana reported that, in recent weeks, there have been at least five stone-throwing incidents, indicating not only the physical deterioration of the transportation system but also the worsening of social tensions on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vandalism and Public Transportation Security in Cuba
What is the current situation of public transportation in Cuba?
Public transportation in Cuba is facing a severe crisis due to fuel shortages, poorly maintained vehicles, and long waits for users. These problems are a reflection of ineffective state management and daily impact the citizens who rely on this service for their travel needs.
Why are acts of vandalism against buses in Havana increasing?
Vandalism against buses in Havana is on the rise due to the physical deterioration of the transport system and increasing social tensions. Social frustration and the lack of responses from the government regarding the transport crisis are intensifying the climate of violence in the Cuban capital.
What measures have the authorities taken to address vandalism in public transport?
Authorities have condemned the attacks and have promised to enhance surveillance to combat vandalism in public transportation. The public has been urged to report these acts and assist in identifying those responsible, although incidents continue to occur with alarming frequency.
How does vandalism affect public transport users in Cuba?
Vandalism directly affects the safety and mobility of passengers and workers in the sector, exacerbating the already critical situation of transportation in Cuba. These acts create an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty for a population already struggling with daily shortages.
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