Rescue crews in Venezuela are racing against time to find survivors in the rubble left by powerful earthquakes that have killed at least 1,430 people. More than three days after the magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 tremors struck, hopes are dwindling as the critical 72-hour window for finding the living nears its end. Tens of thousands of people are reported missing, and millions are feared to lack basic needs such as sanitation.
Desperate Search Efforts
An 11-year-old boy was rescued from the rubble in Caraballeda, north of Caracas, on Saturday, offering a glimmer of hope. Interim leader Delcy Rodriguez thanked other countries for their aid, noting that 24 countries have sent 521 tonnes of supplies, 86 search-and-rescue units with dogs, and over 2,700 personnel. Despite these efforts, the UN aid chief Tom Fletcher warned that the death toll could continue to rise, with more than 50,000 people still missing.
Public Outrage and Chaos
The search for survivors has been marked by chaos and public outrage. Australian firefighter Craig Demeillon described the scene as 'very chaotic, hot and unorganized.' Local residents have taken desperate measures to claw away rubble, driven by the urgent need to find loved ones. In La Guaira, north of Caracas, an infant was pulled alive from the wreckage, bringing a moment of joy to the hardest-hit area.
International Aid and Government Response
The United Nations estimates that up to 6.76 million people could be affected, requiring emergency shelter, safe water, sanitation, and healthcare. National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez reported 1,430 dead and 3,238 injured, with $6.7 billion in physical damage. Foreign nationals among the dead include 28 Portuguese, nine Spaniards, seven Chinese, two Brazilians, one Chilean, one Italian-Venezuelan, and one Uruguayan.
Public Frustration and Government Restrictions
Venezuelans, already suffering from economic crisis and political upheaval, are furious at the government's response. Yessica Mendoza had to transport her own daughter to a morgue after her daughter and son-in-law did not survive the quakes. The government has restricted access to La Guaira, deploying the military and requiring volunteers to obtain a safe-entry pass, leading to frustration among those waiting to help.
