On Wednesday morning, a gas explosion at the Brisas del Mar hotel in Caibarién, Villa Clara, resulted in injuries to three individuals and ignited a fire that firefighters have since managed to control. The incident was confirmed by the Cuban News Agency (ACN), which reported that the explosion was triggered by a liquefied gas cylinder inside the facility, owned by the Empresa de Comercio, Gastronomía y los Servicios.
The injured include hotel staff members: two cooks and the manager. According to Dr. Julio César Arostequí La Rosa, the local health director, the injured were initially taken to María del Carmen Zozaya Hospital for emergency medical treatment. Two of the victims sustained burns, while the third suffered a shoulder dislocation. Arrangements were subsequently made for their transfer to Arnaldo Milián Castro Hospital in Santa Clara.
Lieutenant Colonel Ernesto Lima from the Villa Clara Fire Department confirmed that the fire was swiftly extinguished and that an investigation into the cause of the explosion is underway. Representatives from the Communist Party and local government are on-site, assessing the damage and providing support to the families affected.
Gas leaks and explosions in Cuba have highlighted severe deficiencies in the handling and condition of both domestic and industrial systems. In Havana, a mechanic tragically lost his life when a gas cylinder exploded in a workshop, causing a significant fire that impacted nearby homes. The victim was conducting maintenance work when the disaster struck.
Several months ago, another incident in the Arroyo Naranjo municipality of Havana left two people injured following a gas cylinder explosion. The blast alarmed neighbors and caused extensive damage to the affected residence, once again underscoring the dangers of poorly maintained gas systems.
In a severe case in 2022, a gas leak led to a kitchen explosion in a Havana home. Reports indicated that faulty connections were to blame for the accident. Fortunately, no fatalities occurred, but there were significant material losses.
FAQs on Gas Cylinder Safety in Cuba
What caused the gas explosion at the Villa Clara hotel?
The explosion was caused by a liquefied gas cylinder within the Brisas del Mar hotel premises.
How many people were injured in the explosion?
Three individuals were injured, including two cooks and the hotel manager.
What steps have been taken to assist the injured?
The injured were initially treated at María del Carmen Zozaya Hospital and then transferred to Arnaldo Milián Castro Hospital for further care.
Are gas explosions a common occurrence in Cuba?
Yes, incidents involving gas leaks or explosions have revealed critical failings in the maintenance of gas systems in Cuba.