Chacao Municipality Houses Earthquake Victims in Hotels Amid Reconstruction Efforts

The Chacao municipality is providing temporary shelter in hotels for 68 individuals affected by recent earthquakes, which have claimed 68 lives and rendered 46 residential buildings unsafe. The tremors on June 24th significantly impacted the metropolitan area of Caracas. Gustavo Duque, the mayor of Chacao, reported that engineering inspections revealed considerable structural damage in numerous buildings. Hundreds of homes sustained cracks, fissures, and detachments, making them unsafe for occupancy. Recognizing the vulnerability of many affected residents, particularly the elderly, the municipality opted for hotel accommodation over collective shelters. "We recognize the effort the national government is making to provide temporary shelters, but the physical condition and age of Chacao's residents are quite complex, as most are over 75 or 80 years old," Duque explained. The municipality has secured approximately 300 hotel rooms through agreements with the private sector, which offered discounts to assist families in the initial months following the disaster. In parallel, Chacao is developing a reconstruction plan for damaged buildings. This initiative involves collaborations with banks and private companies, offering tax incentives for repairs. The municipality is also pursuing funding from international organizations specializing in disaster recovery. "We are detailing the smallest possible requirements for the repair of these buildings, not only for those classified as red but also yellow, as we are approaching international bodies that provide aid in such situations," Duque stated. Furthermore, Chacao will individually assess each apartment to determine the extent of damage and necessary resources for repair. Initial estimates suggest basic repairs to make apartments habitable will range from $5,000 to $10,000, with support from construction companies offering materials at cost price.

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We recognize the effort the national government is making to provide temporary shelters, but the physical condition and age of Chacao's residents are quite complex, as most are over 75 or 80 years old.