Cali Begins Reconstruction After Devastating Earthquake, Mayor Proposes Aid Initiatives

Cali is embarking on a formal reconstruction effort after a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck on August 10, leaving 154 dead and over 1,500 injured. Mayor Alejandro Eder has initiated the process by submitting two critical proposals to the District Council during extraordinary sessions.

These initiatives aim to provide the necessary legal framework and financial resources to aid those impacted by the disaster. "We presented the first two emergency projects, which allow for budget modifications and the creation of relief and tax incentives for people affected by this crisis," Eder told the city council. He also announced plans for further projects, including the creation of a medal to recognize the city's solidarity.

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We presented the first two emergency projects, which allow for budget modifications and the creation of relief and tax incentives for people affected by this crisis.

With search and rescue operations officially concluded, the city's focus has shifted. The initial emergency response command post has been replaced by a Unified Command Post dedicated to reconstruction. This new body will oversee the distribution of basic assistance, which is expected to continue for several more months, and manage medium-term public works projects. Of the 154 confirmed fatalities, 149 have been identified and returned to their families.

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If well we already closed the Unified Command Post for the search phase, today we inaugurate and open the Unified Command Post for reconstruction. In this command post we are reviewing the humanitarian issues related to shelters and the distribution of humanitarian aid, which will last a few more months, and we are reviewing the entire reconstruction issue.