A video capturing the nighttime streets of Havana is gaining traction on social media, depicting a scene that many Cubans now consider typical: completely deserted streets, a total absence of vehicles, and sidewalks cluttered with trash.
Shared on TikTok by the account @cubaactual, the footage was recorded around 11:30 PM in the Infanta area, one of the historically busy thoroughfares in Cuba's capital. Yet, the video shows neither a single car in motion nor pedestrians walking along the road.
"It's 11:30 at night and it feels like there's a virus in Havana; the street is completely empty. This is Infanta, and there's not a single car or person around... it's unbelievable," remarks the man filming, visibly shocked by the absolute silence.
The video's creator emphasizes that after a certain hour, the city virtually shuts down. "This is to show you what's happening. People don’t come out after nine at night. Look at this. This is how Havana looks at night," he states while navigating the deserted avenue.
Beyond the abandonment and lack of movement, the video and photos reveal another ongoing issue: the buildup of garbage on the sidewalks. Cardboard boxes, trash bags, and food scraps pile up next to buildings, even in central areas, reinforcing the image of urban decay.
In the comments, numerous users agree that this reality is not an isolated incident. Many point to the transportation crisis, fuel shortages, lack of street lighting, and fear of crime as reasons driving Havana's residents to retreat to their homes early.
Havana, once renowned for its vibrant nightlife and bustling streets, now presents a starkly different face after dark: silence, filth, and a city nearly at a standstill, reflecting the deep crisis gripping the nation.
Understanding Havana's Nighttime Transformation
Why are the streets of Havana empty at night?
The streets of Havana are empty at night due to transportation crises, fuel shortages, inadequate street lighting, and residents' fear of crime, causing people to stay indoors.
What are the visible signs of decay in Havana's streets?
Visible signs of decay include deserted streets, lack of vehicles, and sidewalks cluttered with trash such as cardboard boxes and food waste.
How has Havana's nightlife changed over the years?
Havana's nightlife, once lively and bustling, has drastically changed, now characterized by silence and inactivity due to the profound crisis affecting the country.