Magnitude 7.4 earthquake rocks Colombia: death toll crosses 250, thousands missing

Across the country, approximately 1,600 buildings have either collapsed or sustained severe damage. More than 3,000 people are reported missing in the affected areas.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and property caused by the earthquake in a message sent to his Colombian counterpart, Omar Bula Escobar.

He has assured Colombia of all possible assistance from India. The cities worst hit by the earthquake include Cali, Pereira, Chocó, and Manizales. In Cali—a city with a population of over two million—about 100 people have died, while Pereira recorded the highest death toll at 101.

Forty buildings collapsed in Cali, and 58 collapsed in Pereira; a large number of people are feared trapped beneath the debris. Similarly, the town of El Cairo, with a population of 7,000, has been virtually devastated.

Eighty percent of the structures there have collapsed, and many people are trapped under the rubble. Rescue teams are unable to reach several areas due to damaged roads and bridges.

Consequently, survivors are searching for the missing by clearing debris with their bare hands and limited resources. The country's President, Abelardo de la Espriella, arrived in Chocó—the capital of the earthquake-affected state of Quibdó—on Monday night.

After inspecting the relief and rescue operations, he stated that all army and police personnel have been deployed to tackle the natural disaster. The entire government machinery is engaged in relief and rescue efforts. It is noteworthy that Espriella assumed the office of the presidency just last Friday. The United States has announced $15.5 million in aid for Colombia to provide temporary shelter, food, medicines, and other essentials.