India Intensifies Operation Amistad as Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Reaches 1,719
India has ramped up its humanitarian assistance to earthquake-hit Venezuela under Operation Amistad, deploying rescue personnel, field hospitals, medicines, and relief supplies as the death toll from last week's devastating earthquakes continues to climb. According to CNN, citing National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez, the death toll has reached 1,719, with at least 22,619 people affected, including 5,034 injured. Of the 855 buildings reported damaged, 189 have collapsed completely. The US Geological Survey estimates a 44 percent chance that the final death toll could exceed 10,000.
Embassy Announces Intensified Relief Efforts
In a post on X on Tuesday, the Indian Embassy in Venezuela stated, "#OperationAmistad India has intensified its efforts for disaster relief in Venezuela with a healing touch to those affected by the earthquake." The Embassy of India in Panama, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica also highlighted the mission, posting, "India Stands With Venezuela! India continues to stand as a trusted first responder in times of crisis. Under Operation Amistad, India's humanitarian assistance reached to Venezuela following the devastating earthquake. 2 Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircraft carry a 41-member rescue team, an Indian Army Field Hospital, 30 tonnes of relief supplies, 6 tonnes of medicines and medical equipment, and 2 BHISHM Cube portable hospitals to strengthen relief and rescue operations."
Field Hospital Operational in Caracas
Venezuela's Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed India's assistance, stating that India has set up a comprehensive field hospital in Caracas to treat victims of the June 24 earthquakes. The ministry added, "Equipped with two BHISHM Cubes--high-tech modular medical centres--and supplied by two C-17 aircraft with 36 tons of medical supplies and rescue equipment, the centre provides trauma, surgery, dentistry, triage, laboratory, and X-ray services." The Head of Government of the Capital District, Nahum Fernandez, along with Indian Ambassador PK Ashok Babu, oversaw the opening, which includes the work of 41 healthcare professionals.
Ongoing Rescue and Medical Operations
Describing the relief work, the Indian mission in Panama said, "Working alongside Venezuelan authorities, Indian rescue and medical teams provide emergency medical care, conduct search and rescue missions, and deliver life-saving humanitarian assistance to affected communities." Reaffirming India's commitment, it added, "Guided by the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, India stands shoulder to shoulder with the people of Venezuela and remains committed to extending every possible support during this difficult time." The Venezuelan ministry called the initiative a significant contribution that strengthens the international humanitarian response and alleviates pressure on the Venezuelan hospital network amidst the emergency. A total of 609 aftershocks have been recorded since the earthquakes struck on June 24.
