Venezuela Assesses Infrastructure Damage Amid Fading Rescue Hopes

Ten days after devastating earthquakes struck Venezuela, the nation is focused on assessing infrastructure damage and clearing debris, as the likelihood of finding earthquake survivors dwindles. In La Guaira, a region heavily impacted by the tremors, authorities are working on road and bridge repairs, alongside infrastructure evaluations. The Minister of Transportation confirmed ongoing efforts to restore road safety, including installing guardrails and repairing bridges. While rescue operations are winding down due to the slim chances of survival, families of the missing are urging for intensified searches in collapsed buildings, particularly in the coastal region of La Guaira. Many residents remain displaced, camping in public spaces while awaiting inspections of their homes. The earthquakes have left an estimated 15,050 people homeless and damaged 885 buildings, with 189 completely collapsed. Venezuelan officials met with the UN representative to discuss comprehensive aid plans and temporary camp coordination. Classes are set to resume in unaffected areas on July 6, while schools in earthquake-stricken regions remain closed. The Ministry of Education has also mandated the inclusion of risk management in the curriculum.