New Delhi, August 14, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India on Friday dispatched the first tranche of 20 metric tonnes of relief supplies to Colombia to support recovery efforts following a devastating earthquake that struck the country earlier this week.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said the assistance includes medicines and medical equipment, temporary shelter and hygiene supplies, along with other essential items required in the aftermath of the disaster.
“Dispatched the first tranche of the 20 MT relief supplies to Colombia to support ongoing post-earthquake recovery efforts,” Jaishankar said in a post on X, adding that India stood in solidarity with the Colombian people during the difficult period.
The assistance comes after a magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, killing 281 people and injuring 3,971 others. As many as 391 people remain missing.
According to the Colombian Geological Service, the earthquake struck at 7:34 a.m. local time, with its epicentre located near San Jose del Palmar at a depth of 96 kilometres.
The National Unit for Disaster Risk Management said 44,936 families, comprising 102,105 people, across 15 departments and 426 municipalities had been affected by the earthquake. The disaster destroyed 10,677 homes and damaged another 65,841.
Jaishankar had earlier expressed condolences to the families of those killed and said India was ready to extend all possible assistance to Colombia.
“Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives and the destruction caused by the earthquake in Colombia. Extend heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. Also pray for the swift recovery to those injured,” he had said.
The latest assistance reflects India’s continuing role as a first responder in international humanitarian emergencies and natural disasters.
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