Kathmandu— Following a 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck Colombia on Monday, residents of the port city of Buenaventura are expressing frustration with what they describe as a lack of governmental support in the aftermath of the disaster, which killed approximately 19 people within the city limits and left hundreds injured or homeless. Despite being home to the country’s largest port, many locals fear that their impoverished city will be overlooked in national recovery efforts, mirroring a long history of chronic under-investment and institutional neglect. The earthquake caused widespread damage, collapsing homes and damaging critical infrastructure like the Luis Ablanque de la Plata District Hospital, leaving residents to rely on community support while awaiting aid.

Widespread Destruction and Desperate Need

Lorena Hipis’ home was partially destroyed when a five-story building next door collapsed during the earthquake, killing four people inside. She now fears the remaining structure will crumble, leaving her exposed to further danger. “The government is taking too long,” she said on Thursday, desperate for help clearing debris from her property and protecting what remains of her home. Across Buenaventura, an estimated 540 homes have collapsed and over 3,400 sustained damage, while 330 residents were injured.

Chronic Under-Investment Fuels Distrust

The earthquake has exacerbated existing socioeconomic challenges in Buenaventura, where 15.4 percent of the population lives in multidimensional poverty – more than double the rate in nearby Cali. Bryan Reyes, a shipyard worker who sustained three fractures jumping from a first-floor window during the quake, described the slow response as evidence of long-standing institutional neglect. “It is a total abandonment,” he said, pointing to pre-existing issues at the local hospital, including unpaid staff and limited supplies. According to a 2025 report by Buenaventura Como Vamos, 72 percent of residents struggled to find work, and 70 percent reported insufficient food.

Security Concerns Compound Crisis

In the aftermath of the earthquake, security has become an increasing concern for residents. While neighboring cities have increased military patrols, Buenaventura has not seen a similar response. Jorge Montez, a parking attendant near a collapsed building, witnessed looting after anti-extortion units were diverted to address a prison riot. Residents like Lorena Hipis express fear due to the lack of security and damaged homes. Volunteers delivering aid in Barrio Oriente have requested police escorts due to concerns about gang violence.

Community Resilience Amidst Neglect

Despite years of hardship, residents are demonstrating remarkable resilience by organizing their own relief efforts. Social worker Iveth Dalissa Caceres is coordinating a community kitchen that distributes 400 meals daily to affected areas like Barrio Oriente. “We are an incredibly resilient community,” she said, emphasizing the city’s ability to overcome adversity. Betsy Tenorio, whose grandfather died when his home collapsed, echoed this sentiment, noting that her family has received more support from the local community than from authorities.

As recovery efforts continue, residents of Buenaventura remain hopeful for increased state assistance but are prepared to rely on their own resourcefulness and solidarity to rebuild their lives. The long-term impact of the earthquake on the city’s already vulnerable population remains uncertain.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.