On the small roadway spanning the Borno bridge, pedestrians, cars, and trucks circulate. The space is narrow—so narrow that it allows only one vehicle at a time. And yet, this road, which links the heart of Pétion-Ville to other localities such as Montagne Noire and other neighborhoods located higher up in the commune, remains heavily trafficked. Road users do not seem to be aware of the danger looming beneath their feet.

Indeed, under this small bridge, tons of waste have accumulated, reaching up to the deck of the bridge. This accumulation weakens the structure of the passageway, which could collapse at any moment. Organic waste, solid debris, fecal matter—everything is mixed together. The result is a nauseating odor perceptible from several meters away. Residents assure us that the waste has been piling up for months—if not years. To date, only a very small opening remains for water to flow through in the event of a flood.