Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Surpasses 5,000; 17,000 Homeless

Venezuela's devastating double earthquake on June 24 has claimed over 5,000 lives, with the latest figures showing 5,069 fatalities after 139 additional deaths were confirmed. The disaster has left more than 17,900 people without homes, highlighting the ongoing crisis.

Authorities report assisting 128,324 families impacted by the 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude tremors. Of those displaced, 21,235 individuals are currently housed in 107 temporary camps. Since the initial quakes, the country has experienced 1,331 aftershocks, with a notable tremor of magnitude 3.9 occurring on July 10 causing renewed panic and building evacuations.

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The number of people without housing remains at 17,907

In response to the widespread destruction, the government has launched a biometric census to accurately determine the number of new homes required, with initial estimates suggesting a need for 25,000 units. To expedite the rebuilding process, the Venezuelan Parliament has approved a reform to the Law Against Real Estate Fraud. This legislative change aims to create better conditions, including legal security and financing options, to encourage the private sector to engage in an "aggressive process" of housing construction.

The reform, which requires a second debate for final approval, was explained by Pedro Infante, the first vice president of the National Assembly. He emphasized that the modification seeks to guarantee improved conditions and financing capacity for private companies to accelerate the construction of new homes in the earthquake-affected regions.

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accelerate the construction of housing in the country