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More than 50 families worried about deterioration of 'Salomones' buildings in Colón

More than 50 families worried about deterioration of 'Salomones' buildings in Colón

From TVN Panamá · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Under investigation
  • Over 50 families in Colón, Panama, are concerned about the structural deterioration of the 'Salomones' buildings.
  • Residents report that balconies have collapsed and fear a tragedy due to the poor condition of the roofing and structures.
  • Authorities and the National Housing Bank are involved, with budget for repairs pending legal review.

More than 50 families residing in the Salomones buildings (13209 and 13210) in Colón, Panama, have voiced serious concerns over the structural decay of their homes, a problem that has persisted for over three years. They fear a potential tragedy due to the deteriorating condition of the buildings, particularly the roofing and balconies.

Residents have reported that parts of the balconies have already collapsed entirely. While no injuries have been reported thus far, some children have reportedly fallen, highlighting the immediate danger. "This has been going on for more than two years, and the rain has been rotting it away. I think this material is not good for these balconies," stated one resident, underscoring the ongoing risk.

This has been going on for more than two years, and the rain has been rotting it away. I think this material is not good for these balconies.

— Residentdescribing the ongoing deterioration of the building's balconies.

Pedro Santizo, the representative for the Barrio Sur corregimiento, acknowledged the gravity of the situation, expressing concern over the delays in addressing the issue. "The delay is very worrying. God willing, an accident won't happen, that is the residents' concern and mine too. We are sending a message to the president of the National Housing Bank to urgently sign off," Santizo urged.

The National Housing Bank issued a statement indicating that the budget allocated for the necessary improvements is currently undergoing legal review in Panama City. The families await a response regarding the essential works required to ensure their safety.

The delay is very worrying. God willing, an accident won't happen, that is the residents' concern and mine too. We are sending a message to the president of the National Housing Bank to urgently sign off.

— Pedro Santizourging for swift action from the National Housing Bank to address the building's structural issues.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by TVN Panamá in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.