Colombian President Declares State of Economic Emergency After Earthquake

Colombian earthquake camp/DOK World Central Kitchen

JAKARTA - Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has constitutionally declared a state of economic emergency to deal with the impact of the earthquake that occurred on August 10, while announcing the establishment of a special fund to finance recovery in affected areas.

"I have decided to activate the state of economic emergency, a mechanism mandated by our constitution, in order to adequately deal with this crisis," de la Espriella said in a statement broadcast on Caracol television channel, Wednesday, August 12 local time.

Based on the latest data, the earthquake shock damaged 53,526 houses, causing 140 buildings to collapse, as well as damaging 1,819 educational institutions, 631 community activity centers, and 179 health facilities.

In addition, one pedestrian bridge was destroyed, while 20 highway bridges, 203 roads, 44 clean water supply systems, and five airports were damaged.

"This is without a doubt a very big tragedy," said the president, stressing that the government's main priority is currently focused on providing assistance to the injured and reconstruction of the destroyed area.

According to de la Espriella, this state of economic emergency makes it possible to establish a special fund that will accommodate and channel national and international assistance to improve hospitals, schools, residential areas, road access, and airports.

In addition, the government plans to implement a temporary economic assistance package for victims.

The steps include covering the electricity and water bills for affected families, subsidizing house rentals for residents who have lost their homes, tax and financial incentives, direct cash assistance for vulnerable families, and support mechanisms for small businesses and local traders.

An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.4 shook Colombia on Monday (10/8) morning.

Official government data recorded the number of fatalities had reached 265 people, while 3,494 people were injured and 496 others were still missing.