The Línea Tunnel in Havana will experience a partial closure from November 19 to 23, as it undergoes what officials are calling "historic maintenance."
The Provincial Road Safety Commission of Havana announced that the Plaza-to-Playa lane of the tunnel has been closed since 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday for maintenance work, including painting and pothole repairs. This section will remain inaccessible until 10:00 p.m. on November 23.
Transport Minister Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila shared this update on social media, noting that the Playa-to-Plaza direction of the tunnel was reopened at 10:00 p.m. on Tuesday, following the completion of work that began on November 13.
During the closure of the Plaza-to-Playa lane, drivers are advised to take alternative routes such as 23rd Street, 41st Avenue, 5th Avenue, and Malecón.
The Provincial Transportation Company of Havana has announced changes in bus routes for lines 8, P1, P5, A20, 37, and 34. These buses will alter their paths on the return journey to accommodate the tunnel closure.
According to the new routing plan, buses 8, P1, and P5, which normally travel through Línea, will detour around the tunnel entrance via 24th Street, continue to 23rd Street, pass over the Almendares Bridge, descend via Lázaro Cárdenas Avenue (by the Cira García Clinic), and then rejoin their standard routes.
Meanwhile, routes A20 and 37 will continue to circle the tunnel entrance, with their first return stop at Línea and 18th. Route 34 will avoid Línea entirely, traveling through Zapata to reach 23rd Street, then crossing the Almendares Bridge and following a path similar to routes 8, P1, and P5.
Authorities have issued a warning against the passage of heavy vehicles over the iron bridge.
The Provincial Road Safety Commission urges drivers to "comply with the established regulations" and "remain attentive to guidance from law enforcement officers to prevent traffic accidents."
Minister Rodríguez Dávila described the maintenance as "historic," marking the start of "a new chapter in the life of this Cuban civil engineering marvel." He stated that the effort is part of a "comprehensive maintenance program aimed at preserving its legacy," overseen by the National Roadway Center (CNV) and geodetic engineer Gisel Pupo Almaguer, a specialist in tunnel policies.
Key tasks have been undertaken by the microenterprise Emconat, responsible for repairing the generator room, restoring and painting both the interior and exterior walls and curbs, thoroughly cleaning the drainage systems, and enhancing traffic engineering signage.
The EcoSol division of Copextel is modernizing the lighting system, installing a double circuit with 50 lights of 50 Watts each—a move promising improved safety and efficiency. Additionally, the Road Maintenance Company of Havana has handled pothole repairs.
According to the minister, the current maintenance goes "beyond immediate restoration," aiming to safeguard "an iconic national structure" while ensuring safe transit.
In a tone of optimism, the official asserted that the vital route "is being renewed with the promise of a future that values its history and ensures its continuity for Havana's mobility."
FAQs on Havana's Línea Tunnel Maintenance
Why is the Línea Tunnel in Havana partially closed?
The Línea Tunnel is partially closed for "historic maintenance" that includes painting, pothole repairs, and other critical tasks to preserve its structural integrity.
What alternative routes are available during the tunnel's closure?
Drivers can use 23rd Street, 41st Avenue, 5th Avenue, and Malecón as alternate routes during the closure of the Plaza-to-Playa lane of the tunnel.
Which bus routes are affected by the tunnel's closure?
Bus routes 8, P1, P5, A20, 37, and 34 are altering their routes to accommodate the tunnel's partial closure.