Colombian Earthquake Survivors Find Refuge Amidst Despair

In the heart of Pereira, Colombia, a community grapples with the aftermath of a devastating earthquake that has left many homeless and desperate for aid. Among those affected is Lilian Durán, a 37-year-old waitress who narrowly escaped death during the tremor. She recalls the terrifying moment when she and about fifteen others rushed to an emergency exit, only to find it locked. "I thought I was going to die there," she said, as she now sits on a mattress in Parque La Libertad, which has transformed into an impromptu shelter for displaced residents.

The park is filled with makeshift tents and sleeping areas as families attempt to find some semblance of normalcy. Many have strung ropes between palm trees to create tarps for shelter, while others have set up camping tents. In a scene of resilience amidst tragedy, volunteers provide two meals a day, and a local organization offers intermittent free Wi-Fi for those trying to connect with the outside world.

However, the needs of the displaced residents are vast. Daniel Marchena, a local barber whose shop was destroyed, expressed the urgency for basic supplies: "We lost everything. We need clothes, food, soap, toothpaste—anything will help." His plea extends to the newly elected Colombian president, Abelardo De la Espriella, urging him to fulfill his campaign promise to support those in need.

Lilian echoes this sentiment, adding, "We need toothbrushes, tents, anything because we don’t know when it will rain again." The uncertainty looms large as they await help. After days of hardship, portable toilets have finally arrived, providing some relief, but the lack of showers continues to strain the community's spirit.

Medical students from the Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira have joined efforts, distributing pain relievers and other medications in the five overcrowded shelters across the city. Coordinator Jaider Ruiz noted, "We need more medicines for hypertension and antibiotics to assist those in need." Meanwhile, Pereira’s mayor has reported 66 buildings have collapsed, with many others sustaining severe damage.

As night falls, the streets reveal small fires as residents cook meals, lacking gas for stoves. Just blocks away from the shelters lies Pereira's vibrant nightlife, now also marred by destruction. Fabián Contreras, a local chef, remarked on the community’s resilience, stating, "Pereira has always thrived on the strength of its people. We will rebuild."

Despite the overwhelming losses, Camilo Rivera, a DJ who lost his job at a popular nightclub, remains hopeful. "We need to be patient; we will rise again," he asserts, a sentiment shared by many in this resilient city.

Source: www.clarin.com