ETECSA Offers Free Communication Channels for Hurricane Melissa Updates

The state-controlled communications giant, ETECSA, is set to provide several no-cost communication avenues to keep citizens informed about Hurricane Melissa.

This Monday, ETECSA announced a series of complimentary services in anticipation of the impending impact of the powerful hurricane on the eastern part of the island:

Users will have free access—without using mobile data—to the websites of the Institute of Meteorology and Radio Rebelde. Additionally, once downloaded and installed, the Cubadebate mobile app will be available at no charge. By dialing 800 73565, residents can listen live to Radio Reloj, while 800 77232 connects to Radio Rebelde; both numbers can be accessed from mobile and landlines at no cost. Dialing 188 99 from landlines allows users to listen to their regional radio station for free. Mobile network users can send a free SMS with the word HURACAN to 2266 to receive updates on the storm's position and other details.

ETECSA also reminded users that by using their national browsing bonus, they can access other national (.cu) websites that provide essential updates.

Furthermore, the company assured the public that its employees are working diligently to protect equipment and resources to minimize disruption to telecommunications infrastructure and services in areas likely to be affected.

In preparation, ETECSA has removed public phones and Wi-Fi systems, trimmed trees that could impact phone lines, and checked the condition of power generators, among other preventive measures.

"As usual in such situations, telecommunications services are ensured for the Defense Councils, as well as monitoring and surveillance centers, including meteorology and water resources," they added.

Public Calls for Free Internet During Crisis

Despite ETECSA's measures, the public has been demanding a reduction or temporary suspension of internet fees amid the Hurricane Melissa emergency. This demand went viral on social media last Friday, as journalists and users argued that high prices, frequent power outages, and connectivity issues hinder Cubans from staying informed about the dangerous tropical system's evolution.

Cuban journalist Mario J. Pentón, based in Miami, took to Facebook, where his message quickly garnered thousands of reactions and shares: "The regime should reduce ETECSA's rates so that the people can stay informed about Melissa," he wrote, echoing a sentiment shared by many Cubans both on and off the island.

His call was supported by Santiago-based communicator Cuscó Tarradell, who criticized the state company's insensitivity towards the threat of a potentially severe hurricane. "Why doesn't ETECSA implement a special promotion for purchasing mobile data in CUP to help Cubans stay informed, especially when electrical service limitations affect so many communities?" he asked in a post that was widely shared by users, colleagues, and government officials on social media.

The journalist added that amidst power outages and limited access to official information, social media has become the primary tool for public safety and awareness. "In this era of the internet, blackouts, and urgency in our archipelago, no one carries a TV or keeps a radio on at all times. Social media, when sourced from reliable outlets, is an essential tool for safeguarding lives and reducing vulnerabilities to meteorological phenomena," he emphasized.

Thousands of users joined the plea, reminding that following ETECSA's recent "tarifazo" on mobile data services, many families cannot afford internet packages, especially amid an economic and energy crisis that leaves significant parts of the country in darkness for hours.