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Dangerous Pedestrian Bridge Erected in Baracoa: "Let's See How Long It Lasts"

Monday, May 12, 2025 by Abigail Marquez

Dangerous Pedestrian Bridge Erected in Baracoa: "Let's See How Long It Lasts"
Pedestrian crossing on Mariana Grajales Street - Image by © Facebook / Radio Baracoa

In Baracoa, a city in Guantánamo, authorities have constructed a precarious pedestrian bridge as a temporary measure while they work on building a permanent replacement for the previous structure. A local radio station shared on Facebook that a wooden bridge has been installed on Mariana Grajales Street, where an iron bridge once stood.

The alternative pedestrian crossing was set up to allow people to pass through the area as reconstruction efforts continue on the main bridge and roadway. Concerns have been raised by locals, questioning how long this temporary solution will last and what might happen to the pine wood once the rainy season begins.

Some residents speculate that a permanent bridge may not be constructed due to a lack of building materials. "How much money are the leaders making each time they replace the bridge? That's probably why they don't make it out of concrete," one person remarked. Another added, "This is a decent temporary fix, but if it's pine wood, someone could fall into the ditch soon, assuming the wood isn't taken for firewood due to power shortages."

Another local expressed skepticism, "It looks like there's no steel or cement. Let's see how long it lasts once the downpours start."

Concerns About Baracoa's Temporary Bridge

Why was a temporary wooden bridge constructed in Baracoa?

The wooden bridge was built as a temporary solution to allow pedestrian traffic while a permanent bridge is being constructed to replace the previous iron structure.

What are the concerns about the temporary bridge's durability?

Locals are concerned about the bridge's durability, particularly how it will withstand the rainy season, as it is made of pine wood which may not hold up well under wet conditions.

Is there skepticism about building a permanent bridge in Baracoa?

Yes, some residents doubt that a permanent bridge will be built, citing a possible lack of construction materials and financial mismanagement.

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