Persistent Noise Issues at Havana's Almendares Park Disrupt Residents

Cuban author Rafael de Águila has once again taken to social media to voice his frustration over the relentless noise pollution emanating from Havana's state-operated Almendares Park. Despite ongoing complaints, the park continues to bombard nearby residents with blaring music for hours on end, with no intervention from management.

"After a few days of quiet or reasonably low music levels, the 'legendary' Almendares Park is back to its old tricks, subjecting the 'Cuban family' in the vicinity to unbearable noise for seven hours straight," De Águila lamented in his latest critique, shared on Facebook.

Impacts on Health and Sleep

In a previous post, the writer detailed how the park's sound system blasts music—sometimes of the Mexican genre—within a 400-meter radius, whether you like it or not. One particularly egregious incident lasted until 7 PM. De Águila highlighted the plight of those who are ill and need rest, as well as night workers struggling to sleep due to the incessant noise. "There are sick people who wish to rest. Individuals who work night shifts can't sleep because the relentless noise makes it impossible," he emphasized.

Legal Grounds for Complaints

De Águila bases his complaints on Cuban law, specifically citing Law 81 of 1997 (Environmental Law), article 152, which mandates authorities to set noise level standards, investigate noise sources, and assign responsibility for their abatement. "They are violating current legal regulations. Enough!" he demanded, invoking the principle that "the right to provide a service ends where the community's right to peace begins."

Call to Action for Residents

Frustrated by the lack of official response, De Águila urged local residents to file collective complaints with the park administration and to explore legal avenues. "The enjoyment of some should not equate to the discomfort of others," he argued, encouraging the dissemination of his posts to raise awareness.

Broader Context of Noise Pollution

This issue is part of a larger trend of noise pollution caused by state facilities in Havana. In July, complaints arose about the Latinoamericano Stadium operating as a nightclub until the early hours. In June, residents of Nuevo Vedado reported unbearable noise from the generator of the state-run Empresa de Telecomunicaciones de Cuba S.A. (Etecsa).

In August, Havana police confiscated speakers and fined bicitaxi drivers in Centro Habana for playing loud music, yet there remains no documented official response to complaints against state-run establishments like Almendares Park.

Cuban regulations—Law 81/1997, Decree-Law 200/1999, and NC 26:2012—include fines ranging from 200 to 2,250 pesos for noise violations, but their enforcement against state entities is, according to those affected, virtually nonexistent.