Havana, October 16 (RHC) -– Over half of the total number of homes built in the country this year were raised by efforts of their owners, a growing trend in Cuba today, although the housing plan continues to be behind schedule for the second consecutive year.

An article in Granma newspaper cites official statistics revealing that a total 6,329 have thus far been built throughout the island without the participation of state construction companies.

The construction effort by individuals has been backed with the allocation of construction materials, like cement, blocks and other materials, said Roberto Vazquez, head of the investment department with the National Housing Institute. Also significant has been the subsidy program which benefits citizens requiring such assistance.

But in the state sector, delays are prevailing in the construction of new homes since most projects are buildings that need specialized equipment, said Vazquez, who noted that apartment buildings make up for the largest volume of all concluded projects from January to June, with 2,093 housing units.