Colombia earthquake: Search for survivors winds down as hope fades

In Colombia, the desperate search for survivors of a devastating 7.4 magnitude earthquake is nearing its end, one week after the powerful tremor struck. The hopes of finding anyone alive beneath the rubble have significantly diminished, with heavy machinery now replacing the initial, more delicate search efforts.

The August 10 earthquake ravaged parts of Colombia's Pacific coast, destroying thousands of buildings and claiming the lives of nearly 300 people, according to the latest official figures. At least 140 individuals remain unaccounted for, adding to the ongoing tragedy. In Pereira, one of the most affected cities, rescuers like 30-year-old Andrés Cano express profound exhaustion, both physical and psychological.

"The hope of finding people alive is now negligible," Cano told Agence France-Presse, surrounded by fellow volunteers. The earthquake presents the first major crisis for the new right-wing government of President Abelardo de la Espriella, who took office just days prior. He has appealed to U.S. President Donald Trump to temporarily suspend customs duties on Colombian exports to aid the recovery.

Western Colombia, including its vital coffee-producing region, has borne the brunt of the destruction. Approximately 27,000 properties have been damaged, either partially or completely. In reception centers, QR codes are being used to help earthquake victims register missing relatives or report property damage. Jorge León in Cali described the painful process of starting over, while rescuers marked a collapsed five-story building with a red 'V' – signifying the end of the search for survivors in that location.

Despite the grim reality that survival chances decrease dramatically after 72 hours, many volunteer rescuers remain determined. "They tell us many days have passed, but we continue searching for survivors, we want to keep hope alive," explained Juan Carlos Tavares, a professor and head of the Valencia rescue team. The mayor of Cali estimates the cost of rebuilding the city to be substantial, highlighting the immense challenge ahead for the nation.