Anguish of Colombian brother at rubble of building being searched for earthquake survivors

The magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck Colombia on Monday, 10 August, is the worst in this century, according to the National Geological Service.

In addition to Cali, it left destruction and death in other regions such as Chocó, in the north-west.

Around the remains of Torres del Limonar, unlike Gallego, many residents choose not to speak. They are visibly affected.

Some sleep exhausted on the ground or on a sofa placed in the street. Others gather together under the shade for support.

The hours are long, increasingly so, and the anguish grows.

Velasco offers hope.

“In the past I have participated in operations where we have pulled out survivors after seven days trapped.”

“Those who are meant to survive, survive. Nothing is written,” he adds.

“I wanted to help from the very beginning.”

Amid his anguish, Gallego wants to acknowledge the work of ordinary citizens.

“We must mention all the people who have come to help with water, supplies, tools, equipment; there is a lot of collaboration. Volunteers are plentiful,” he says.

Alejandro Mahecha, 19, is one of those volunteers. He decided to come after spending the night safely with his family and overcoming the initial shock.

“I wanted to help from the very beginning. The earthquake affected my city and the homes of people I know. I came to this site because there has been a lot of talk about this building and the need for help here,” the young man explains.