Cali concludes earthquake search, prepares for reconstruction after 150 deaths

Cali, Colombia, has officially closed the search and rescue phase after the devastating earthquake on August 10, marking a somber transition towards recovery and reconstruction. The city, which bore the brunt of the seismic event, has confirmed a tragic toll of 150 deaths and over 1,500 injuries.

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We have located the last fatal victim of this tragedy, the last mortal victim, and we are currently, the rescuers are in the process of recovering the person.

Mayor Alejandro Eder announced the recovery of the final victim from the rubble, bringing the grim task of body recovery to a close. Of the 150 deceased, 140 have been identified and returned to their families. Additionally, more than 1,500 individuals sustained injuries, with 50 still hospitalized, some in critical condition, and at least four requiring amputations.

"We have located the last fatal victim of this tragedy, the last mortal victim, and we are currently, the rescuers are in the process of recovering the person," stated the mayor, noting that the final figures will be certified by the prosecutor's office. With the search operations concluded, the city's attention is now directed towards the thousands of families who have lost their homes or cannot return due to the risk of collapse. Mayor Eder estimates that over 20,000 families are registered as affected, a number that could rise to between 25,000 and 30,000 once registration is complete.

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Although this is difficult, although this is just beginning, the people of Cali will rise again, and we will do so with a rebuilt, resilient, inclusive city, stronger for our youth and for our future.

"Although this is difficult, although this is just beginning, the people of Cali will rise again, and we will do so with a rebuilt, resilient, inclusive city, stronger for our youth and for our future," Eder affirmed. The national government, through the Minister of the Interior Rodrigo Lara, has pledged support, announcing the preparation of "life aid" packages. These financial aids are intended to go beyond standard rent subsidies, aiming to meet the specific needs of each affected family. The government hopes to begin distributing these funds as early as next week, potentially by Monday or Tuesday, by streamlining processes through the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD).

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We are here with the mayor looking for the legal paths so that from next week, hopefully Monday or Tuesday, the life aids are delivered.