Frustration mounted across Venezuela as earthquake survivors awaited assistance while the death toll continued rising after devastating tremors
EL JUNQUITO
Public frustration is growing across Venezuela as thousands of survivors continue to wait for government assistance five days after two powerful earthquakes devastated several parts of the country. Rescue operations have become increasingly difficult, with hopes of finding more survivors fading as the confirmed death toll climbed above 1,700. Authorities also reported that nearly 5,000 people have been injured, while hundreds remain displaced after the disaster destroyed homes, businesses, and public infrastructure.
The twin earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, struck on Wednesday, causing widespread destruction across multiple regions. Officials said nearly 200 buildings have been completely reduced to rubble, while several hundred more have suffered severe structural damage, leaving thousands of families without safe shelter.
Among those feared dead are as many as 140 people who had recently been deported from the United States, including children. They were reportedly staying at a hotel that collapsed during the powerful tremors, making it one of the deadliest single locations affected by the disaster. Rescue teams continue to search the debris, although the chances of finding additional survivors are diminishing with each passing day.
Experts believe the scale of destruction was worsened by years of inadequate infrastructure maintenance, weak enforcement of building regulations, and poor construction practices. According to disaster specialists, decades of neglect and insufficient oversight left many structures unable to withstand strong seismic activity, contributing significantly to the high number of casualties and injuries.
In El Junquito, a mountainous region located about 33 kilometres west of Caracas, residents have expressed disappointment over what they describe as a slow government response. The area, usually a popular weekend destination, has suffered extensive damage, with its commercial centre largely destroyed. During visits to the affected communities, damaged buildings and piles of debris remained visible, while many residents continued to live in temporary shelters.
Local communities have largely relied on volunteers, farmers, and neighbours for food, water, and other essential supplies. Residents say official assistance has been limited, forcing ordinary citizens to organise relief efforts on their own. Many families remain uncertain about when damaged buildings will be inspected or when reconstruction work will begin.
Several displaced residents have established makeshift camps in open spaces despite concerns over nearby unstable structures. Business owner Tony Abreu said he has been living in a tent since the disaster because both his home and shop have been declared unsafe. Like many others, he remains uncertain about when authorities will provide permanent accommodation or begin rebuilding damaged neighbourhoods.
