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Cuban railways advance in recovery and modernization

https://www.granma.cu/cuba/2025-09-29/avanzan-ferrocarriles-cubanos-en-recuperacion-y-modernizacion

The Cuban Railway Union (UFC) reported progress in the recovery and modernization of the national railway system, with actions that include investments in stations, locomotive and car repairs, as well as measures aimed at strengthening traffic safety, reported the Cubadebate website.

Argenis Jiménez Aparicio, deputy director of the UFC, stated that major repairs were carried out at Havana Central Station, Morón Station in Ciego de Ávila, and Zaza del Medio Station in Sancti Spíritus, with the goal of improving service to travelers.

The executive stated that the first phase of Havana Central Station is expected to be completed in 2025, with basic services such as a cafeteria, medical care, and a children's and nursing room. In Morón, work is underway on the roof to protect the remaining structures.

In parallel, locomotives, passenger cars, and freight cars were recovered, with an emphasis on the lorries used to transport basic food baskets, of which 140 units have been repaired since the end of 2024, he said.

Jiménez Aparicio explained that the accidents were linked to both resource limitations and operational negligence, leading to the implementation of rail network patrols and training activities for personnel to minimize risks.

Regarding the delays, he noted that the power outage at stations caused communication interruptions, forcing train speeds to be reduced to ensure passenger safety.

The official indicated that import contracts for parts for locomotives and cars acquired in 2019, which had not received spare parts since their purchase, were finalized, which will help maintain the fleet's vitality.

In terms of comfort, alternative solutions were implemented for seating and restrooms, and onboard services were diversified through the incorporation of Cubacatering SA and non-state economic actors.

The UFC strengthened communication with users through digital channels and station announcements, enabling real-time reporting of delays and feedback from travelers.

The tour of the central line allowed for the identification of critical points and the planning of immediate and medium-term actions, including imports of sleepers and parts for specialized maintenance equipment.

Nine of the 13 UFC companies implemented Decree Law 87 to improve wages, which increased employee retention and sense of belonging, according to the deputy director.

Jiménez Aparicio emphasized that the U.S. economic, commercial, and financial embargo made the acquisition of resources more expensive and difficult, but he asserted that his commitment to recovery and serving the population remained.

José Luis Toledo Sarmiento, commercial director of the UFC, stated that local trains transported more than 1.6 million passengers with a 76 percent service rate, while national trains exceeded 100 percent, with more than 40 additional trains during the holiday period.

The UFC is working on infrastructure restoration, rolling stock repairs, and the incorporation of new technologies, with the goal of improving the quality, punctuality, and safety of travel, in line with the demands of the population and the country's development plans.