Bogotá marks 488 years amid earthquake relief and event suspensions

Bogotá is navigating a complex week marked by both its 488th anniversary celebrations and the aftermath of a 7.4 magnitude earthquake in Chocó. To show solidarity with those affected by the seismic emergency, the District has suspended the traditional Ciclovía Nocturna and other scheduled cycling activities. A new date for these events will be announced once the national situation evolves.

Despite the suspensions, the city continues various commemorative activities. The Metropolitan Police launched the ‘Un Solo Parche por Bogotá’ campaign to strengthen community ties through recreational activities across 19 localities. Additionally, the Mayor’s Office, Idartes, and TransMilenio distributed 4,880 free books to promote reading among commuters during the anniversary period.

In response to the earthquake, a humanitarian effort is underway. Over 42 shopping centers in Bogotá and Cundinamarca have opened as collection points for essential supplies, including food, water, and hygiene products, to support families in Chocó, Valle del Cauca, Risaralda, Quindio, and Caldas. Meanwhile, local authorities like IDIGER are providing guidance to citizens on residential seismic safety and emergency preparedness.