India Sends 20 Metric Tons of Emergency Aid to Earthquake-Stricken Colombia
NEW DELHI — India has dispatched 20 metric tons of humanitarian assistance to Colombia as the South American country continues recovery efforts following a powerful earthquake that killed hundreds of people and caused widespread destruction.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said Friday that the first shipment includes medicines, medical equipment, temporary shelters, hygiene supplies and other essential materials for communities affected by the disaster.
“Dispatched the first tranche of the 20 MT relief supplies to Colombia to support ongoing post-earthquake recovery efforts,” Jaishankar said in a post on X. “The assistance includes medicines and medical equipment, temporary shelter and hygiene support, and other essential items needed in the aftermath of the disaster. India stands in solidarity with the people of Colombia during these difficult times.”
The aid follows a magnitude 7.3 earthquake that struck western Colombia on Monday, leaving 281 people dead and 3,971 injured. Another 391 people remain missing.
According to the Colombian Geological Service, the earthquake struck at 7:34 a.m. local time near San Jose del Palmar at a depth of about 96 kilometers.
The disaster has affected more than 102,000 people from nearly 45,000 families across 15 departments and 426 municipalities, according to Colombia’s National Unit for Disaster Risk Management.
Authorities said 10,677 homes were destroyed and another 65,841 sustained damage, highlighting the scale of the reconstruction effort facing the country.
India offered assistance shortly after the earthquake. On Tuesday, Jaishankar expressed condolences to the victims’ families and said New Delhi was prepared to help Colombia with its recovery.
“Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives and the destruction caused by the earthquake in Colombia. Extend heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. Also pray for the swift recovery to those injured. India stands ready to extend all possible assistance,” he said. (Source: IANS)
