WASHINGTON, Aug 14 — The World Bank has said it disbursed US$200 million (RM817.2 million) to Colombia for its emergency response to a deadly August 10 earthquake that left hundreds dead.
The multilateral development financial institution said it is working with Bogotá, development partners, financial institutions, and the private sector to address immediate needs, while laying the foundations for recovery.
It has also launched a Global Rapid Assessment of Damages from Earthquakes to provide the Colombian government with an early assessment of damages and economic losses to help Bogotá prioritise aid and reconstruction efforts.
Efforts are underway to channel financing to affected communities and businesses, including support for public health, housing, and small and medium-sized enterprises.
The 7.4-magnitude quake struck shortly after 7.30am on Monday, toppling apartment blocks and damaging homes, schools, and hospitals across western Colombia.
On Friday, the authorities said that 285 people had been killed and nearly 4,000 injured. Nearly 400 others were still missing.
