In Venezuela, the death toll in two powerful earthquakes has risen to 589. Nearly three thousand people have been injured. Rescuers are searching through rubble in a rush to save lives after earthquakes struck near the capital yesterday.
In Caracas and the nearby coastal city of La Guaira, people could be heard calling for help from under the debris of collapsed buildings. The first 7.2-magnitude quake was followed seconds later by an even stronger 7.5-magnitude one, both occurring close to the surface, making destruction more severe.
The country’s interim President Delcy Rodríguez has declared a state of emergency. Several countries have pledged to help the rescue efforts. Interim President Rodriguez has acknowledged India’s solidarity following the earthquakes, stating that it aligns with the spirit of cooperation between the people of India and Venezuela in times of difficulty.
She welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks, in which he expressed condolences and India’s willingness to support relief efforts in the wake of the earthquakes’ severe consequences.
Quoting Mr. Modi’s social media post, Ms. Rodriguez recognized the expressions of international support and conveyed gratitude for the solidarity Venezuela has received.