Venezuela is setting up temporary housing for families affected by last month's earthquakes, which have resulted in a death toll of at least 4,490. The announcement was made on Saturday by Jorge Rodriguez, President of the National Assembly and brother of acting President Delcy Rodriguez. The United Nations estimates that 50,000 people are still missing.
Venezuela's Earthquake Response and Housing Plans
In the wake of the devastating earthquakes that struck on June 24, authorities in Venezuela are prioritizing the establishment of temporary accommodation for those who lost their homes. Rodriguez emphasized that the government would not halt the search for bodies, countering speculation that it might clear the rubble hastily to mitigate families' fears.
Over 850 buildings have been destroyed or severely damaged, leaving more than 19,000 people living in makeshift camps, including sports stadiums and schools. With the new academic year approaching, schools will need to be vacated, prompting the government to estimate that around 25,000 homes will be necessary.
Land Allocation for New Homes
Rodriguez announced that over 40 plots of land have been allocated in La Guaira state, covering approximately 584,000 square meters, for the construction of new homes. However, he cautioned that costs are expected to rise significantly due to the extensive need for reconstruction, rental assistance, and property purchase loans.
The interim President, Delcy Rodriguez, has formally requested the Bank of England to release Venezuela's gold reserves, stating, "This gold belongs to our people and should be used to serve them." She also reached out to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for the release of assets intended for emergency use.
Public Sentiment and Government Actions
The government's response to the earthquakes has sparked anger among Venezuelans, who are demanding more efficient aid and support. As the situation evolves, the focus remains on ensuring that displaced families receive the assistance they need during this critical time.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by DW English. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
