One month after the M7.4 earthquake in western Colombia, disparities and security concerns arise in recovery efforts in affected areas

[São Paulo Current Affairs] 10 days marks one month since an earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale occurred in August in western Colombia, South America. 331 people were killed, and 111 people are still missing. More than 36,000 houses were damaged. While buildings are being demolished and repaired in the disaster-stricken areas, the disparity in the level of recovery between cities and rural areas is becoming clearer.

[Photo Feature] M7.4 earthquake in Colombia, South America

"It's not just my home. All my memories are gone. I feel sad and angry."

Natali Alsate, 28, who lives in the western city of Cali, one of the worst affected areas, lost her grandmother and aunt when a building collapsed in the earthquake. Her grandmother's apartment, which has disappeared without a trace, was an unforgettable place where her family gathered at Christmas and other milestones.

One month has passed since the earthquake. Debris is being removed from the area where the home was located. Alsate, who is still staying at a relative's house, said, ``The town, which had a cheerful atmosphere, may never return to the way it was, but I am trying to move forward with the people around me.''

Compared to urban areas, recovery in rural and remote areas such as San Jose del Palmar, the epicenter of the earthquake, has been delayed. According to local media, these areas have problems with transportation and other issues, and there is a shortage of labor and construction materials. Clashes between armed groups have intensified in some of the disaster-affected areas, and there are concerns about the deterioration of security.

Olivier Dubois, head of the Colombian office of the Red Cross, which operates in unstable regions such as Cauca state, points out that ``regions that are already difficult to reach with public services have been hit by earthquakes, and residents are now in even more difficult situations.'' She said women who have lost their children and livelihoods are at increased risk of being exploited by armed groups, and stressed the importance of supporting the reopening of economic activities and schools.