Tragic Incident on the Piedecuesta–Floridablanca Highway
A devastating accident occurred on the Piedecuesta–Floridablanca highway, where a poorly maintained tree fell, resulting in the loss of two lives. The victims, identified as Jaime Hernández Carreño and Yuri Vanessa Mantilla Mejía, were riding their motorcycle when the unexpected incident took place.
Details of the Accident
Witnesses reported that the accident happened on the afternoon of November 17, near the entrance to Río del Hato. They noted that the victims had little to no chance to evade the falling tree. The local authorities, under the guidance of Secretary of Transit and Mobility Adán Gélvez, stated that the collapse of the tree is the preliminary cause of this tragic event. “We assume it is due to the fall of the tree, but everything is a matter of investigation,” Gélvez stated.
Emergency Response
Traffic agents quickly received alerts and arrived on the scene to find that both riders had tragically succumbed to their injuries. Emergency agencies swiftly initiated work to remove the fallen tree and restore mobility along the highway, which had been obstructed during the grim investigation.
The State of Urban Trees in Bucaramanga
Data from the Undersecretariat of Environment of Bucaramanga’s Mayor’s Office reveals an alarming state regarding urban forestry. A recent census indicated that 87% of the 71,491 trees in the metropolitan area are suffering from significant phytosanitary damage. This alarming statistic highlights that over 62,000 trees are in compromised conditions, threatening public safety.
Community Concerns and Requests for Action
The issue of falling trees is not a new phenomenon. Approximately 50 families have reported property damage due to falling branches or entire trees in 2023 alone. Local community leaders, including Carmen Contreras Bermúdez, have urged municipal authorities to take immediate action. In areas like Morrorrico Park, residents fear that a tree is nearing collapse, leading to urgent calls for preventive measures.
Previous Incidents and Safety Demands
Neighborhood reports emphasize a trend of escalating dangers, as evidenced when a young man sustained injuries from another falling branch earlier this month at La Flora ecological park. With mounting pressure from local communities, residents are calling for proactive measures to ensure the safety of pedestrians and motorists alike.
A Call for Immediate Attention
The families of the recent accident victims are demanding that municipal authorities address this pressing safety issue. They emphasize that along with promoting cautious driving, it’s crucial to resolve the underlying structural problems related to the health of urban trees. As the investigation into the recent incident continues, the urgency for improved tree management and public safety interventions remains a significant concern in Bucaramanga.