Venezuela demolishes unstable earthquake‑damaged buildings, hindering body recovery

Venezuela has begun dismantling structures deemed unsafe after a series of powerful earthquakes struck the western part of the country last week, leaving dozens dead, hundreds injured and thousands homeless. The seismic events, measured at magnitudes of 6.2 and 6.0, caused widespread collapse of residential blocks, schools and commercial premises in the states of Zulia and Trujillo. Government officials announced that demolition crews have started work on more than 500 buildings that pose a risk of further collapse, a process expected to continue for several weeks while engineers assess the remaining housing stock.

The removal of the damaged structures has placed an additional burden on survivors, many of whom have lost their homes and possessions. Humanitarian agencies estimate that roughly 12,000 people now require emergency shelter, food and medical assistance, with the United Nations estimating the immediate relief cost at $45 million. The Venezuelan government has pledged $30 million for temporary housing and reconstruction, but shortages of building materials and a strained economy have slowed progress, leaving many families to rely on makeshift accommodations and community support. Authorities say the demolition effort is essential to prevent further casualties, while relief programs aim to mitigate the economic impact on the displaced population.