Colombia Earthquake Survivors in Pereira Await Aid as Death Toll Tops 200

Days after a powerful earthquake struck western Colombia, residents of Pereira are still waiting for official help, with many left to salvage what they can from damaged homes and shops.

The 7.4 magnitude quake, which hit on Tuesday, has killed more than 200 people, according to forensics authorities. President Abelardo de la Espriella initially reported 181 dead and 2,595 injured, but the toll has since risen. Hundreds are still missing, and civilian databases suggest the number could be over 4,100.

In Pereira, the scene is one of quiet desperation. Buildings have collapsed, cars lie crushed under rubble, and families are lowering furniture from balconies with ropes, packing whatever they can carry. Some are loading trucks to leave, while others sift through the wreckage of their homes, a Colombian flag still flying above the debris.

Local resident Osmel Soto told reporters that no government official has visited his neighbourhood. "Nobody, nobody has come around here, truly," he said. "No one has come here to say, we're doing this (or that), nothing." Asked about his future, he replied, "From now on, we must see what we can do."

Another resident, Durance Santa, said she and her family had lived in their home for 20 years. She said neither the mayor's office nor anyone else had come to help, though "people of goodwill" had brought supplies.

The slow official response has tested the new government of President de la Espriella, which is scrambling to coordinate relief efforts. The true scale of the disaster remains unclear, and many residents are left to wonder what comes next.