The World

Earthquake recovery in Peru

The BBC’s Dan Collyns reports from the Peruvian seaport of Pisco on efforts to rebuild — 6 months after a devastating earthquake there; many residents were left homeless and are now having trouble getting government permission to rebuild.

Environment

Pisco was nearest the epicenter of the earthquake and this congregation at this church had gathered for a funeral mass. The tremors lasted for two and a half minutes and there were only seconds to escape. The Father was one of the only survivors. This Sister says most of her family was lost. The 66 year old widow says she’s not received any help from the government. Her family was never registered so she can’t receive a $2,000 bonus to rebuild it. the Peruvian Minister for Social Development says the lack of registration of houses has hurt Pisco. Reconstruction has begun but many like this woman are still living on makeshift shelters on vacant land. this aid worker says the government is doing its best. There are almost 120,000 people living without homes. The plaza in Pisco was filled with dead bodies six months ago but is now rebuilding.