Venezuela Demolishes Unsafe Towers After 6,125 Deaths, Hindering Search for Thousands Missing
Updated
Updated · Al Jazeera English · Aug 5
Venezuela Demolishes Unsafe Towers After 6,125 Deaths, Hindering Search for Thousands Missing
3 articles · Updated · Al Jazeera English · Aug 5
Summary
Nearly 190 buildings collapsed in La Guaira after the June 24 twin earthquakes, and controlled demolitions that began July 30 are now complicating families’ efforts to recover bodies still buried in the rubble.
At least 6,125 people have been confirmed dead, but the missing still number in the thousands; rescue teams say machines must often stop for hand recovery once remains are detected beneath unstable concrete.
Two of OPPE 27’s four collapsed towers had already been cleared by early August, leaving relatives like Glenda Viloria and Jose Gregorio Balcazar searching with volunteers and basic tools while accusing authorities of limited practical help.
The government says demolition is needed to remove structurally unsound buildings and has launched a reconstruction plan for 1,875 homes in La Guaira and 4,000 homes for displaced families by year-end.
About 24,477 people remain in 107 temporary camps, while some survivors resist leaving disaster sites for fear of permanent displacement, unsafe shelters and losing any chance of returning home.