Colombia quake death toll tops 250 as rescuers race to save trapped survivors

A powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck Colombia's western region on Monday, claiming more than 200 lives and leaving hundreds missing across cities like Cali, Pereira, and Manizales. Rescue workers have been racing against the clock to locate trapped survivors, with several individuals pulled out of the rubble alive. In Cali, a 35-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman were rescued, while firefighters also pulled at least five survivors from a partially collapsed hotel.

The death toll has risen in Pereira to over 70, and Mayor Mauricio Salazar described the disaster as severe, with hospitals struggling to cope with the injured. Manizales has also suffered significant damage, with about 60 buildings collapsing and around 2,000 people affected. The earthquake is Colombia's deadliest since a 6.2-magnitude quake in January 1999, which killed more than 1,000 people.

Colombia's government has promised relief for affected families, including economic assistance for those whose homes have been destroyed, and temporary accommodation for those who have lost theirs. President Abelardo de la Espriella has toured the affected cities and assured government support for the recovery efforts. India has also offered assistance to Colombia.