In a disturbing recurrence of vandalism, another public bus in Havana fell victim to a stone-throwing incident in the early hours of Tuesday morning. The attack targeted bus number 5248 on route 37 in the Santos Suárez neighborhood during its regular "confronta" run. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the damage inflicted was described as "significant" by the Transportación Habana TH Facebook group.
The social media post did not disclose how many individuals were involved in the attack or whether any arrests were made. "These incidents CANNOT continue. Each attack further harms our passengers and exacerbates the already critical state of public transportation," emphasized the group.
In a follow-up post, Transportación Habana TH highlighted the "irreparable damage" these acts of vandalism are causing to the community. The assault has forced bus 5248, a staple on routes 37 and A-18, to cease operations. "This is not merely an inconvenience; it's a disaster impacting us all," the group stressed.
The post also pointed to the rising number of buses being vandalized, citing the influence of drugs and the presence of individuals in difficult situations as contributing factors. "We need to put a STOP to this before we're left without transport options," the statement urged.
The social media message praised the drivers and terminal staff for their "heroic efforts" in keeping the buses operational, often purchasing parts with their own money. However, it lamented the situation: "It's heartbreaking to see a few unruly individuals undermine the hard work of so many."
"How long will we allow our public transportation to fall victim to such vandalism? It's unacceptable for these actions to continue with impunity. It's time for us all to unite and put an end to this," the post implored.
This latest act of vandalism adds to a troubling series of violent events affecting buses across the Cuban capital. These incidents not only compound the scarcity of vehicles but also highlight the escalating social tension and violence the population faces.
On April 19, a vehicle on the P11 route was stoned during its confronta service, as reported by the Provincial Transport Company of Havana via its official Facebook account. Just days prior, a bus on route 23, numbered 5229, was attacked near the Fábrica Park while en route from the Lawton Terminal. On that occasion, intervention by the public and the Revolutionary National Police (PNR) led to the arrest of several suspects.
In February, a P13 route driver was brutally assaulted by two passengers in the Parque de La Fraternidad, resulting in a head injury that required medical attention. In January, students hurled stones at a P11 route bus following a dispute with the driver.
Authorities have acknowledged the public transportation system's collapse in Cuba, citing shortages of spare parts, fuel, and vehicles as key contributors. Official statistics paint a grim picture: only 252 buses are operational in Havana, while 309 remain out of service, reflecting the regime's inability to maintain the country's essential infrastructure.
Understanding the Impact of Vandalism on Havana's Public Transport
What are the consequences of vandalism on Havana's bus services?
Vandalism leads to significant damage to buses, disrupts services, and exacerbates the existing public transport crisis, making it difficult for passengers to commute.
How have the authorities responded to these acts of vandalism?
Authorities have acknowledged the problem but have struggled to address it effectively due to shortages of resources and infrastructure challenges.
What is being done to maintain bus operations in Havana?
Bus drivers and terminal staff are working tirelessly to keep services running, often using their own funds to purchase necessary parts.