Venezuela's Sidor Ramps Up Steel Production for Earthquake Reconstruction

Siderúrgica del Orinoco (Sidor), Venezuela's state-owned steel company, has affirmed its ongoing production capacity to supply steel for the reconstruction of areas devastated by earthquakes on June 24. Héctor Silva, president of the Venezuelan Corporation of Guayana (CVG) and minister of Ecological Mining Development and Basic Industries, visited Sidor's bar production areas to inspect progress. Silva confirmed the steel manufacturing process, which will be used to restore critical structures and construction projects in the most affected states. This production aligns with the national government's directive to support the 'Plan Venezuela Renace,' aimed at rebuilding the nation. The CVG emphasized the collaborative effort between Sidor's workers, technicians, and operational staff, highlighting their commitment to national development and support for earthquake-affected families. The report also provides a grim update on the earthquake's toll: over 5,546 deaths, 16,740 injured, and 17,907 people displaced. Additionally, 856 buildings were damaged and 190 collapsed following the magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes. Over 1,500 aftershocks have been recorded since the initial tremors.