Child drowns in sewage ditch in Portuguesa

A young child has died after falling into a sewage ditch in Portuguesa, Venezuela. The tragic incident occurred Wednesday evening in the caserío Poblado 3, located in the Nueva Florida parish of the Santa Rosalía municipality.

The child's mother lost sight of him while doing household chores. Her search ended with the devastating discovery of the boy in a drainage canal behind their home. He was rushed to the nearest medical center, where he was pronounced dead.

Local media reported that the Santa Rosalía municipality has been dealing with widespread flooding since last year. The Portuguesa River overflowed its banks, exceeding historical rainfall levels from the past three decades. Approximately 40 families in nearby communities are living with flooded streets and homes.

Residents have urgently requested a drainage pump to remove the stagnant water. They warn that without it, homes are at risk of collapse, and future accidents could occur. This recent tragedy highlights the dangers posed by the ongoing flooding and the critical need for preventative measures.