Mar 14 • 03:19 UTC 🇪🇨 Ecuador El Universo (ES)

Body of one of the two sisters missing due to landslide in Sigchos found

The body of one of the two sisters who disappeared in a landslide in Sigchos, Ecuador, has been found following extensive search efforts.

On March 13, 2023, the body of one of the missing sisters, Pilaguano Chusín, was discovered after they vanished during a significant landslide in the Guasumbiní Alto sector of Chugchilán parish, Sigchos canton, located in the Cotopaxi province of Ecuador. The landslide occurred on March 9, triggered by heavy rains in the area, which resulted in a massive flow of earth that destroyed the house where the sisters were located at the time. This tragedy has deeply affected the local community, prompting a swift emergency response to locate the sisters.

Since the disaster, search operations have been coordinated by various institutions alongside local volunteers, who have utilized specialized canine units to assist in the search for the sisters. Despite these efforts, it was only after several days that one body was found, underscoring both the challenges of search and rescue operations in such harsh conditions and the emotional toll this event has taken on families and the community. The other sister remains unaccounted for, and rescue operations continue in hopes of finding her.

Cotopaxi Governor Nelson Sánchez expressed his condolences and highlighted the magnitude of the landslide, which was reported to affect ten hectares of land, devastating everything in its path, including vegetation, homes, and livestock. As efforts continue, the local authorities and community are rallying to provide support to affected individuals and families, emphasizing the need for community solidarity during these difficult times. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by residents in areas prone to severe weather conditions and landslides, prompting discussions on disaster preparedness and response in Ecuador's mountainous regions.

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