Kathmandu— A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake shook western Colombia on Monday, triggering a frantic search for survivors amidst the rubble of collapsed buildings in cities like Pereira and Cali. The quake, which struck at 7:34am local time (12:34 GMT), has claimed at least 254 lives nationwide, with the majority of casualties concentrated in those two urban centers. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to locate individuals trapped beneath debris, while residents grapple with damaged homes and fears of looting as authorities impose a curfew.

Devastation In Cali

Cali, Colombia’s third-largest city, has been particularly hard hit, reporting at least 95 deaths and the collapse of dozens of structures. The Vanessa Building, a seven-story residential apartment block, was reduced to wreckage, with rescuers estimating around 20 people remain trapped inside. Hundreds of volunteers are assisting in the clearing of rubble, forming human chains to pass debris away from the site while emergency responders listen for signs of life. A neighboring nursery, part of a local Adventist Church, was also impacted by the collapse, raising fears for the safety of approximately 17 children.

Community Response and Volunteer Efforts

The response to the disaster has been largely driven by citizens and private companies, with heavy machinery donated by construction firms being used in rescue operations. Volunteers like Maximiliano Herrera, a member of the Adventist Church congregation, are working around the clock, coordinating efforts and providing support despite knowing many of those trapped may be acquaintances or friends. “It’s very sad to know that the kids of friends and acquaintances are most likely under here,” Herrera said. Even former residents of collapsed buildings, like Samir Valencia who lived in the Vanessa Building until 2022, attempted to help before being overcome with grief.

Government Response Under Scrutiny

The crisis marks a significant challenge for newly inaugurated President Abelardo de la Espriella, who chose Cali as the location for his oath of office as a demonstration of his commitment to addressing crime. While De la Espriella has pledged support and met with local leaders, some communities, like those in Buenaventura, feel neglected by the government’s response. Concerns have also been raised about disorganization among responding agencies, with Herrera noting a lack of centralized leadership despite ample support.

Security Concerns Amidst The Crisis

With Cali having one of Colombia's highest crime rates – recording 1,067 homicides last year – authorities are concerned about potential looting. Mayor Alejandro Eder announced the “militarisation” of the city on Monday, implementing a curfew from 8pm to 6am for all except rescue workers and essential personnel. Residents have also reported damage to their homes, with cracks appearing in facades and debris accumulating at building foundations, prompting risky attempts to retrieve valuables even after aftershocks.

Rescue efforts are ongoing as authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damage and coordinate aid delivery to affected communities. The focus remains on locating survivors and providing support to those displaced by the earthquake.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.