Apocalyptic situation in Pereira after devastating earthquake
Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella described the reality facing the city of Pereira as apocalyptic following the 7.4 magnitude earthquake that shook the nation last Monday. During his visit to the capital of Risaralda, one of the areas hardest hit by the natural phenomenon, the president expressed his dismay at the scale of the material and human damage.
Walking through the center of Pereira, walking through the city, wrinkles one’s heart. But we Colombians are used to rising to the occasion in the midst of adversity, and let’s say we have never had it easy. And believe me, this situation is not going to be too much for us.
Abelardo de la Espriella, President of Colombia
Balance of victims and those affected
After holding meetings with local authorities, De la Espriella shared the official toll of victims in Pereira, which amounts to 94 deceased, 259 injured people, and a total of 140,000 affected individuals belonging to 41,600 families. Likewise, the active search continues for 260 citizens who are listed as missing, an issue that the president described as an absolute priority.
Nationwide, the impact of the earthquake has been devastating, totaling 285 confirmed deaths, 379 missing, 3,975 injured, and the destruction of 12,828 homes. The epicenter of the earthquake, recorded by geological authorities, was located in the vicinity of San José del Palmar, in the department of Chocó.
Reconstruction and humanitarian aid plan
Regarding assistance, the capital of Risaralda has already received 90 tons of humanitarian supplies managed through the office of the first lady, Ana Lucía Pineda. The head of state emphasized that the recovery of the region will require a special and sustained intervention.
- Presentation of an economic emergency next week to channel national and international funds.
- Activation of legal mechanisms to accelerate the reconstruction of critical infrastructure.
- Call to the private sector to collaborate in the comprehensive recovery of the affected areas.
The president reaffirmed his commitment to lead the country’s recovery, ensuring that all necessary resources will be included in the economic emergency package, thus seeking to boost the nation’s reconstruction following the most severe earthquake recorded in Colombia so far this century.
