Curaçao Celebrates 10th National Public Transportation Day

Curaçao's public utility company Aqualectra disconnected 1,672 customers from both water and electricity services as of March 18 due to outstanding payment arrears. The affected customers collectively owe 11.92 million Antillean guilders, signaling a significant financial strain on both residents and the utility provider. The mass disconnections highlight growing affordability pressures facing households across the island. Losing access to both water and electricity simultaneously poses serious health and safety risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with medical needs. The situation underscores broader concerns about the cost of living in Curaçao and the ability of residents to keep up with essential utility bills. Aqualectra, which holds a monopoly on water and electricity distribution on the island, has not yet publicly detailed any relief programs or payment plan initiatives in connection with this wave of disconnections.

All Curaçao patients currently in Colombia for medical treatment through the Social Insurance Bank (SVB) are safe and in good condition following a recent earthquake in the country. The evening newspaper Amigoe reported the update based on information provided by the SVB. Curaçao, like other Caribbean islands, regularly sends patients abroad for specialized medical care that is unavailable locally, with Colombia being a common destination. The earthquake prompted concern among family members and health authorities on the island regarding the welfare of those receiving treatment far from home. The SVB moved to reassure the public by confirming all patients under its care in Colombia had been accounted for and were unharmed. No evacuations or disruptions to medical treatment were reported.

A powerful earthquake struck Colombia on Monday morning, causing widespread destruction across the country. Dutch nationals caught in the disaster zone spoke to NU.nl about their experiences, with accounts ranging from those near the epicenter to people hundreds of kilometers away. One survivor expressed relief simply at being alive, stating 'I'm glad I'm still here.' The quake's impact was felt across a broad geographic area, underscoring the severity of the seismic event. While the excerpt does not specify the exact magnitude or official casualty figures, the accounts suggest significant destruction and fear among those present. The reports highlight the vulnerability of foreign nationals abroad during natural disasters and the human toll of such events.