5 days after Venezuela's earthquakes, some communities still await help

Some communities in Venezuela that were severely affected by the twin earthquakes last Wednesday are still waiting for government assistance to support rescue and recovery operations, residents of the worst-hit areas said on Monday.

In El Junquito, a mountainous town located about 33 kilometres west of Caracas and known as a popular weekend destination, locals reported that government officials have been largely absent. Instead, farmers and community members have been stepping in to provide essential supplies and assistance.

"We are waiting for action—for the debris to be cleared, inspections to be carried out, and for those who have suffered the most to receive help," said Keily Ibarra, a 33-year-old manicurist who has been coordinating residents' appeals to the authorities. She urged the government to take the necessary measures.

Much of El Junquito's commercial district was destroyed by the earthquakes, with numerous buildings reduced to rubble. During a Reuters visit, many residents who had lost their homes were found living in tents in an open field, despite the continued danger posed by unstable structures nearby.

"We don't know where we will eventually be relocated or how long we will have to stay here," said Tony Abreu, a local sweet shop owner who has been living in a tent since both his home and business were deemed unsafe.

There have also been unconfirmed reports of fatalities following the collapse of homes and other buildings in nearby neighbourhoods.

Although several international rescue teams and aid organisations have arrived in Venezuela, much of their assistance has been directed toward La Guaira, the state that suffered the greatest damage in a country already facing prolonged political and economic challenges.

The global community has responded by supporting Venezuela's disaster relief efforts. According to Venezuelan authorities, 24 countries have contributed more than 500 metric tonnes of relief supplies, deployed over 2,700 rescue and support personnel, and sent approximately 86 canine search-and-rescue teams.