Clearing debris after Venezuela's double earthquake presents major reconstruction challenge

Venezuela is grappling with the monumental task of clearing an estimated 1.2 million tons of debris left by a double earthquake on June 24. The disaster, which struck primarily La Guaira state, has left hundreds of buildings in ruins, creating a major obstacle to the country's reconstruction efforts.

An assessment by the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and the Venezuelan government indicates that approximately 900,000 tons of the debris consist of collapsed concrete and steel structures. An additional 332,000 tons are composed of personal belongings and household items. Roads in areas like the one connecting Tanaguarena and Naiguatá are lined with piles of rubble, a mix of concrete, steel bars, clothing, documents, and furniture, as workers sift through the remnants.

Logistical challenges hinder immediate solutions. Engineer José Arreaza explained to Efe that transporting debris to Caracas is currently impractical due to time and cost constraints, and specialized equipment is scarce. He noted that the current practice of roadside dumping is a temporary measure, similar to what occurred after the 1999 landslides in La Guaira.

However, the UNDP emphasizes the importance of integrated debris management, including classification, recycling, and reuse. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez has met with international officials, including an advisor from the Israel Defense Forces, to coordinate removal programs, though specific guidelines remain undisclosed. Experts like Joaquín Benítez from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello suggest that up to 60% of debris could be recycled for reconstruction. The Ministry of Ecosocialism has deployed a crushing machine to process rubble into construction aggregate, but details on its operation are limited.

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But the UNDP maintains that in managing any type of disaster of this magnitude, integrated debris management is a priority, which includes classification, recycling, and reuse when possible.