A recent act of vandalism has once again disrupted Cuba's already fragile public transportation system. A train stationed at Alquízar in Artemisa province came under attack on July 10, as unknown assailants hurled stones at one of the passenger cars. This alarming event was reported by the Facebook page Transportación Habana TH, which highlighted the vulnerability of the train while it was stopped at the station.
Images circulating on social media reveal the damage inflicted on a window of the train. Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries. However, this incident is part of a growing trend of attacks on Cuba's trains and buses, igniting concern among authorities and frustration among citizens who rely on these essential services.
Mounting Concerns Over Public Transport Attacks
In a similar incident in October 2024, Train No.13 traveling from Havana to Guantánamo was pelted with stones in Santiago de Cuba, between Mella and Baraguá municipalities. Passengers experienced panic, though the situation was managed with the help of onboard police. The train attendant from the affected car condemned the attack as "despicable" and empathized with the fear felt by travelers.
Orgiel Pérez Milanés, Director of the National Routes Agency, recalled a previous incident where a young girl was injured during another stone attack on a train bound for Santiago de Cuba. He emphasized that beyond the physical damage, such assaults have a profound impact on numerous passengers, as each disabled car leaves many without critical transportation, whether for medical or familial needs.
Broader Impact on Cuban Railways
In less than a year, additional incidents have targeted the Havana-Bayamo train, damaging seats 1 and 2 of car number two, as well as the national train running between Havana and Holguín. In response, the Cuban Railway Union has asserted that an immediate response protocol is activated in such cases, involving station officials, railway police, and investigative bodies.
Vandalism against buses in Havana has also been reported. This past April, several buses were attacked with stones on different routes throughout the capital city. These actions have prompted the Minister of Transport, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, to declare that the perpetrators face widespread condemnation from the Cuban people and will receive the full extent of the penalties they deserve.
FAQs on Public Transport Vandalism in Cuba
What measures are in place to protect Cuban trains from vandalism?
The Cuban Railway Union has implemented an immediate response protocol involving station staff, railway police, and investigative teams to address such incidents swiftly.
Have there been any injuries reported due to these attacks?
While the recent attack at Alquízar resulted in no injuries, past incidents have caused injuries, including a case where a young girl was hurt during a stone attack on a train to Santiago de Cuba.
How has the Cuban government responded to these acts of vandalism?
Cuban officials, including the Minister of Transport, have strongly condemned these actions and assured that the culprits will face appropriate sanctions.