Colombia: Fatal accident in Riohacha, Medellín urban planning concerns, and water crisis in Vélez

In La Guajira, 68-year-old farmer Julián Ramón Ortiz Amaya died following a traffic accident on the road between Riohacha and Cuestecitas. The victim was reportedly struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross the road or enter a farm property. Witnesses stated the driver fled the scene immediately after the collision. Authorities in Albania have launched an investigation to identify the vehicle and the driver involved.

In Medellín, the Colombian Association of Tourism Service Providers via Digital Platforms (Asohost) has warned that the proposed revision of the Land Management Plan (POT) threatens the livelihoods of thousands of households. The association argues that the new regulations would prohibit tourist housing in many residential areas and impose strict conditions elsewhere. Asohost claims the plan lacks a transition period and could lead to economic instability for families currently operating within the sector.

Meanwhile, in Vélez, Santander, the community continues to face water supply instability. The Attorney General's Office is monitoring the situation as local authorities, the Ministry of Housing, and utility companies work to address structural failures in the municipal aqueduct to ensure a permanent supply of potable water.