Cali continues search for earthquake survivors despite passing 72-hour mark

In Cali, Colombia, rescue teams persist in their search for survivors of the magnitude 7.4 earthquake, even after the critical 72-hour window has passed. Despite the grim reality, socorristas continue their efforts in the capital of Valle del Cauca, one of the most affected areas. The provisional death toll across Colombia has risen to 273, with 377 people still missing, according to the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management. Cali alone has recorded at least 100 deaths and significant damage to residential and commercial buildings. Local authorities, led by Cali's ombudsman Gerardo Mendoza, are maintaining active search operations with rescue crews. Mendoza emphasized the commitment to continue exploring areas with potential survivors, stating, "As long as there is hope of life, I resist the intervention of heavy machinery. We must keep exploring, we must continue. The last thing to lose is faith." Concurrently, the ombudsman's office and the mayor's office are assessing the needs of affected populations, particularly those in middle-class sectors who have lost their homes. President Abelardo de la Espriella has declared a state of economic emergency to establish the "Fondo Milagro" (Miracle Fund), aimed at channeling resources for the reconstruction of damaged infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, roads, and airports.