Crime and Pollution in Cuenca

Crime Data in Cuenca

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Cuenca experiences a relatively balanced perception of crime. While the crime index suggests moderate levels, residents have varying degrees of concern, particularly about potential rises in crime and corruption.

The general atmosphere in Cuenca denotes a secure feeling during the day, although nighttime security perceptions decrease slightly.

Some notable concerns include:

• Property Crimes - Property crimes in Cuenca, such as burglary and minor thefts, evoke moderate concern. Residents highlight these events as pressing issues but feel adequate measures are in place to manage safety effectively.
• Drug-Related Issues - The outlook on drug-related crimes in Cuenca is relatively positive, with public opinion suggesting these aren't a significant threat, indicating effective control and awareness strategies within the community.
• Violent Crimes - Concerns about violent crimes are minimal, with citizens expressing a higher sense of safety in relation to physical assaults and attacks compared to theft-related crimes.
• Public Safety - Cuencanos generally feel confident about their safety during the day, showing satisfaction with public safety measures in place. However, the sense of security decreases during the night amid concerns over robbery and attacks.

Crime Trends and Safety

• Rising Crime Concerns - There is a moderate growing concern that crime may be on the rise, particularly linked to perceptions of corruption and bribery. Such concerns call for ongoing vigilance and institutional transparency improvements.
• Specific Fears - Specific worries about crime remain low overall but include potential theft and increased incidents of corruption, with less emphasis on ethnic, religious, or racial victimization concerns.

Summary of Crime in Cuenca

Cuenca’s commitment to maintaining low levels of violent crime appears effective, and continuous focus on managing corruption and property crimes may further enhance public safety perceptions.

Crime Rankings

Cuenca ranks 3rd on the Crime rankings in Ecuador. The crime ranking by city for Ecuador is based on a continuously updated index, incorporating data up to 36 months old and calculated twice a year. Cities are ranked on a scale from "very low" to "very high" crime levels, with safety being the inverse, where a high safety index indicates a safer city.

1. Guayaquil

Ecuador

2. Quito

Ecuador

3. Cuenca

Ecuador

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Cuenca has achieved significant strides in advancing air quality, despite moderate pollution concerns highlighted by particulate matters. The focus remains on maintaining these standards amid urban development.

A steady improvement in air quality is essential, with current levels described as moderate but posing potential health risks to sensitive groups.

• PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter) - The PM2.5 levels are acceptable but require attention to minimize exposure risks, ensuring the well-being of sensitive populations such as children and the elderly.
• PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter) - PM10 levels are higher, influencing overall pollution ratings. While within moderate limits, continuous monitoring and reduction efforts are crucial.

Waste and Noise Pollution

Noise pollution is manageable, though present in bustling city areas. Traffic and urban activities contribute to the noise landscape, requiring ongoing management to enhance life quality.

Garbage disposal systems in Cuenca receive high satisfaction ratings, reflecting efficient municipal services in maintaining cleanliness and public health.

• Garbage Disposal Satisfaction - Cuenca shines in waste management, with residents acknowledging efficient systems and cleanliness in most neighborhoods. This satisfaction marks a notable achievement in sustainable urban management.
• Noise and Light Pollution - Noise and light pollution are modest issues, typically in active urban zones. Efforts to mitigate such impacts could elevate resident satisfaction further.

Green Spaces and Water Quality

Cuenca’s commitment to preserving green spaces is evident, contributing to ecological welfare and cementing their importance within urban settings as recreational havens.

Drinking water quality is notably high, with substantial satisfaction reported by residents, underscoring the effectiveness of the city's infrastructure in ensuring clean and accessible water.

• Green and Parks Quality - Green areas in Cuenca receive glowing feedback, serving as vital community assets that foster recreation and ecological benefits during urban expansion.
• Drinking Water Quality - The availability and purity of drinking water in Cuenca stand out, highlighting robust infrastructure and water management policies that serve as a model for urban centers.

Pollution Rankings

Cuenca ranks 3rd on the Pollution rankings in Ecuador. The pollution ranking for Ecuador is based on a combination of visitor perceptions and data from institutions like the World Health Organization. The Pollution Index estimates overall pollution levels by considering air and water pollution, garbage disposal, and other factors, with air pollution given the highest weight, while the Pollution Exp Scale uses an exponential function to highlight extremely polluted cities.

1. Guayaquil

Ecuador

2. Quito

Ecuador

3. Cuenca

Ecuador