Under the leadership of First Secretary of the Party Central Committee and President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, alongside Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, the National Defense Council has been rigorously overseeing recovery operations in regions devastated by Hurricane Melissa. The storm inflicted severe damage on Guantánamo, Santiago de Cuba, Granma, and Holguín, disrupting essential services such as electricity, water supply, and telecommunications.
The restoration of electricity has been a focal point, with significant progress reported in various provinces. In Las Tunas, 99.95% of customers have regained power, while Guantánamo and Holguín have achieved 96.45% and 79.76% restoration, respectively. However, Santiago de Cuba remains a critical area, with only 29.23% of electricity services restored due to extensive damage to distribution lines. Efforts are concentrated here, with additional brigades being deployed to expedite repairs.
Water supply restoration is also underway, with varying levels of success across provinces. Holguín has restored service to 83% of its population, while Guantánamo and Granma have achieved 96% and 55%, respectively. Santiago de Cuba, however, lags with 57% restoration, partly reliant on water trucks.
The Economic and Social Body subgroups reported on agricultural recovery, with 13,000 hectares of crops like plantains, cassava, and coffee already rehabilitated. Additionally, construction materials and equipment have been dispatched to aid in rebuilding efforts.
The National Civil Defense General Staff has transitioned several municipalities into the Recovery Phase, acknowledging the disciplined and cooperative response from the population and media during this crisis.