Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Reaches 164, Over 971 Injured

Karkas. Following the recent powerful earthquake, the death toll in Venezuela has reached at least 164. Acting President Dolcy Rodriguez made this announcement in an address to the nation on Thursday morning. Her statement provided an updated figure. It is suspected that the actual number of deceased may be higher as search and rescue operations are ongoing. The number of injured in the earthquake has reached 971. According to officials, many buildings have been completely destroyed, and hundreds of structures have suffered severe damage. Rescue teams are continuously working based on the assumption that people may be trapped inside the debris. Rodriguez stated that at least 30 aftershocks have been recorded since the two main powerful earthquakes. This has created an atmosphere of fear in the affected areas and made rescue operations more challenging. Rodriguez informed that arrangements are being made to send more rescue workers in coordination with the United Nations. Similarly, she mentioned that efforts are underway to establish an initial fund of 200 million US dollars for reconstruction in collaboration with the multilateral lending agency International Monetary Fund (IMF). The Acting President has urged the private sector to assist in the rescue campaign by providing heavy equipment and machinery. Such equipment is particularly necessary for clearing debris and searching for trapped individuals. Rodriguez has appealed to citizens to remain calm and stay inside buildings that are in safe condition. She emphasized the need for national unity and requested all citizens to exercise restraint.