Cuba's historic homes are facing a dire predicament as the country's economy collapses, leaving residents in a perilous state. The ornate stone balconies of the decaying colonial townhouses, once symbols of pre-revolutionary Cuba, now pose a constant threat of collapse. This crisis is particularly evident in the densely populated Centro Habana district, where a storm caused a stone staircase to crumble, trapping Marnie Estevez and her family on the third floor. The situation is dire, with no immediate escape for them or the thousands of others evacuated from ruined buildings to cramped temporary lodgings.
The issue extends beyond individual families. In Habana Vieja, the historic city center, nine families who were displaced from a collapsed building three years ago are still residing in a boxing gym. Their living conditions are abysmal, with cardboard walls and makeshift privacy measures. The economic crisis, exacerbated by a US-imposed fuel blockade, has left the Cuban authorities struggling to address the housing deficit, which stands at over 900,000 units.
The ravages of time, lack of maintenance, and overcrowding are evident across Havana's colonial buildings. Habana Vieja, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts around 900 listed buildings, some dating back to the 16th century. However, the decay is striking, with blue skies visible through facades, resembling theater props. Between 2000 and 2013, nearly one building collapsed daily, and by 2020, 37% of residential buildings were deemed unsafe.
The residents' plight is further exacerbated by the perceived absence of the government. Dayana Garcia, a mother living in the boxing gym, accuses the Cuban authorities of abandoning them, as no one from the government has visited to assess their situation. This situation raises questions about the effectiveness of the government's response to the housing crisis and the well-being of its citizens.
In conclusion, Cuba's historic homes are on the brink of collapse, and the economic crisis, coupled with the government's perceived lack of action, has left residents in a vulnerable state. The urgency of the situation demands immediate attention and a comprehensive strategy to address the housing deficit and ensure the safety and well-being of the Cuban people.
