The dismantling of the former Higher Institute of Industrial Design (ISDI) in Centro Habana has sparked worry among local residents. They are apprehensive about the potential dangers involved in the demolition process and mourn the loss of a historic landmark.
The Centro Habana Municipal Assembly announced on Facebook that the demolition is being carried out by the state-owned company GEICONS. This confirms the final removal of the building situated on Belascoaín Street, between Estrella and Maloja.
A video shared on social media by Facebook user "Díaz Canel Sin Gao" captures the moment a demolition machine tears down the remaining walls. In the footage, a voice can be heard expressing concern: “This is so dangerous, my God!” as a cloud of dust envelops the area.
The imagery reveals the extensive scale of the demolition. Large sections of the building have been reduced to rubble, soon erasing all traces of the structure that hosted one of Cuba's most significant design institutions for decades.
Originally constructed in 1860, the building had housed the ISDI since 1984. However, it had been severely deteriorating for years, leading to its closure in 2022 due to structural issues and several partial collapses in recent years.
This demolition was deemed necessary, highlighting the rapid decline of Cuba's architectural heritage. Residents now fear that the vacant lot could become a dump site or an abandoned space, as has happened with other demolished buildings in the capital.
Impact of ISDI Demolition on Centro Habana
What are the residents' main concerns about the demolition?
Residents are primarily worried about the safety risks associated with the demolition process and the potential for the site to become a neglected space or dumping ground.
Why was the demolition of the ISDI building necessary?
The demolition was necessary due to the building's significant structural deterioration, which had led to its closure and several partial collapses, posing a safety hazard.