Recent acts of vandalism have disrupted the telecommunications network managed by the Cuban Telecommunications Company, S.A. (ETECSA), leaving hundreds of Cubans without phone service. In a statement shared on X, the state-run communications monopoly detailed three incidents in Havana this week where copper cables were severed and phone cabinets were set ablaze.
The first incident was reported in Habana del Este, between Minas and Campo Florido, where a fire damaged the area's fiber optic cable. Another event occurred this Friday when a cabinet at 120 and 49 in Marianao caught fire. Lastly, they reported the severing of 1,800-pair copper cables supporting numerous phone services near Hospital between San José and San Rafael in Centro Habana.
ETECSA executives have not disclosed any arrests or investigations aimed at identifying those responsible for these acts. They also haven't mentioned if there are surveillance measures in place to monitor these areas for vandalism. "We urge individual and collective responsibility. Let's protect what is ours," ETECSA stated, assuring that efforts are underway to restore the disrupted services.
While authorities hold individuals accountable, other potential causes for the fires might include electrical shorts and inadequate maintenance of the infrastructure. The presence of trash and nearby vegetation has also been noted as contributing factors to these incidents.
The disruption of telecommunications services directly impacts the daily lives of Cuban citizens, who rely on public telephony and internet access for communication and work. This lack of service adds another layer of difficulty to the already challenging daily life in Cuba.
Impact and Causes of ETECSA Network Disruptions
What recent incidents have affected ETECSA's network?
Recent incidents include fires and intentional damage to fiber optic and copper cables in Havana, affecting many customers.
Has ETECSA identified those responsible for the vandalism?
As of now, ETECSA has not reported any arrests or ongoing investigations to identify those responsible for these acts of vandalism.
What other factors might contribute to these disruptions?
Electrical shorts, poor infrastructure maintenance, and the accumulation of trash and vegetation are noted as potential contributing factors.