A blaze erupted on Wednesday at La Chiquita store and the Globo hotel in Pinar del Río city, prompting an immediate response from firefighters and the Ministry of the Interior's forces. According to local state-run media, the fire, which alarmed the local population, was swiftly brought under control without any human casualties reported.
Lieutenant Colonel Raúl Iván Enrique Bello, head of the Fire Department, explained that the fire began in a hallway at the back of the store, accessible from the street, where combustible materials like cardboard and wood had accumulated. Although the fire was quickly extinguished, experts are still investigating the precise cause.
Initial assessments indicate no damage to the interior of La Chiquita store or the adjacent Globo hotel, though there were reports of damage to electrical systems due to burned wiring. Pinar del Río's Electric Company will need to inspect the area before restoring power to neighboring buildings.
Executives and employees from TRD and Cimex chains, along with representatives of the Communist Party and the provincial government, were present at the scene. Their presence aimed to convey a sense of control amidst growing public dissatisfaction over the energy crisis and deteriorating public services. Although contained, the fire highlighted again the fragility of critical infrastructures amidst the country's ongoing crisis.
The accumulation of waste and flammable materials in commercial spaces underscores the lack of preventive measures and maintenance. Investigations are ongoing, yet for Pinar del Río residents, this incident adds to a long list of everyday disturbances in a province already battered by power outages, shortages, and the decay of essential services.
Recently, a massive fire broke out in Yaguajay municipality, Sancti Spíritus province, devastating the leased bar "El Refugio" and at least five nearby homes, as confirmed by residents on social media. The flames completely consumed the establishment's roof while dozens of people gathered on the street to witness the calamity. Despite the fire's scale, there were no reported human fatalities, although several families lost everything.
Key Information on Recent Fires in Cuba
What caused the fire at La Chiquita store?
The fire originated in a hallway at the back of the store, where combustible materials such as cardboard and wood had accumulated.
Was there any damage to the Globo hotel?
Initial assessments show no damage to the interior of the Globo hotel, although electrical systems were affected by burned wiring.
How did the authorities respond to the fire incident?
Firefighters and the Ministry of the Interior forces responded immediately, and representatives from TRD, Cimex, the Communist Party, and the provincial government were present to manage the situation.
What impact did the fire have on Pinar del Río's infrastructure?
The fire exposed the vulnerability of key infrastructures, highlighting issues such as waste accumulation and lack of preventive maintenance in commercial areas.