Colombian town of Tanguí devastated by earthquake, seeks aid for reconstruction

The remote Colombian village of Tanguí, located on the banks of the Atrato River in the Chocó region, is grappling with widespread devastation following a powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck on August 10. Content creator Andrea Rico, who traveled to the affected area, reported that "90% of this town suffered damage," with many homes completely destroyed or severely compromised.

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this town suffered 90% of the damage.

Residents described losing everything, including basic necessities. "I'm left without a house, my kitchenware, everything is lost," one inhabitant told Rico. Families are now facing the daunting task of rebuilding their lives amidst the ruins, having lost not only their homes but also their personal belongings.

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I'm left without a house, my kitchenware, everything is lost.

This natural disaster has struck a community already struggling with pre-existing difficulties. The local health post, supported by UNHCR, lacks sufficient medication, and the school faces issues with adequate lighting. Furthermore, a promised aqueduct project has been stalled for years, leaving access to clean water uncertain. Economic challenges also persist, with past initiatives to boost traditional sugarcane farming failing to materialize due to a lack of functioning equipment and market access.

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In this town, electricity is from community electric generators.

The earthquake has exacerbated these existing vulnerabilities. Images captured by Rico show the extent of the destruction, with families forced to seek shelter with neighbors. The village's reliance on community-run generators for electricity, powered by diesel or gasoline, further complicates emergency response efforts. "For now, this is the first aid coming to the community," an inhabitant noted, as Rico appealed for essential supplies and construction materials.

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For now, this is the first aid that comes to the community.