Colombia declared a 30-day economic, social and ecological emergency in 15 states following the 7.4-magnitude earthquake. The decision was taken to support recovery efforts and facilitate the response to the disaster.
The decree, signed by President Abelardo de la Espriella, was published by the Administrative Department of the Presidency. The decree said extraordinary measures would be implemented to bring the crisis under control and prevent the effects of the disaster from spreading.
Government granted authority to adopt additional measures
Under the decree, the government was authorized to issue decrees with the force of law to take any additional measures it deems necessary. The government will also be able to make budgetary adjustments and carry out public credit operations to implement these measures.
Earthquake killed 314 people
The 7.4-magnitude earthquake affected 15 states and 471 towns across the country. The disaster killed 314 people, injured 4,437 and left 262 people missing.
The number of people directly affected by the earthquake was recorded at 262,154. The disaster completely destroyed 30,664 homes, while 136,946 homes and 302 buildings were damaged; serious structural damage was identified in 5,809 structures.
Miracle Fund established for reconstruction
In a statement on August 18, de la Espriella said the earthquake had caused an estimated $9.5 billion in damage based on initial assessments. He also announced the establishment of a new fund, called the Miracle Fund, to manage the reconstruction process.
The fund is expected to operate on the model of the Coffee Axis Reconstruction and Social Development Fund, which was established after the 1999 earthquake in Colombia’s city of Armenia.
The government plans to provide rental assistance, support with public services, new housing and home-improvement aid to families who lost their homes. De la Espriella called on contractors and financial institutions to support the reconstruction process.
