Earthquake disaster in Colombia: State of emergency declared

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella's government has declared a 30-day state of "economic, social, and ecological emergency" across 15 provinces to manage the aftermath of a devastating earthquake. The decree, signed by the Presidential Administrative Department, aims to facilitate response efforts and address the crisis.

The 7.4 magnitude earthquake has had a catastrophic impact, affecting 15 provinces and 471 towns. Official figures indicate a death toll of 314, with 4,437 people injured and 262 still missing. The disaster directly impacted 262,154 individuals, destroying 30,664 homes and damaging over 136,000 more. Additionally, 302 buildings were damaged, and 5,809 structures sustained significant structural damage.

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The government has taken new measures to heal the wounds of the earthquake disaster and facilitate response efforts.

President De la Espriella estimated the earthquake caused approximately $9.5 billion in damages. To spearhead the reconstruction, a new fund named "Miracle Fund" (Fondo Milagro) has been established. This initiative is modeled after a similar fund created after the 1999 Armenia earthquake.

The government plans to offer rental assistance to displaced families, streamline public services, and provide support for new housing and home improvements. President De la Espriella has also called upon contractors and financial institutions to contribute to the recovery process.

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The earthquake caused approximately $9.5 billion in damages.