The representative Edwar Fernando Orozco Oñate, expresses the importance of coordinated actions between authorities and civil society to guarantee basic services and promote social equity.
The city of Santa Marta has many problems that directly affect its citizens, among which the lack of public lighting, drinking water service and insecurity among citizens and social leaders who are being threatened by criminal groups stand out.
For some time now, residents of various neighborhoods have expressed their displeasure over the lack of public lighting, and despite continuous payments for the service, it is almost non-existent. It has been a recurring concern among citizens, which is why councilor Pedro Manuel Gómez Áñez has requested information about the management of the public lighting tax from the authorities in charge.
Recently in an interview, the representative of Santa Marta, Edwar Fernando Orozco Oñate, said that in response to this series of complaints, measures have been taken and it is being possible to verify that the public lighting tax is allocated specifically to its original purpose.
«There are several complaints. “It has been a repetitive theme.” Edwar Fernando Orozco Oñate stated. “We are analyzing the information they have provided us, but the lack of transparency in this matter is worrying.” Added the representative of Santa Marta.
An obsolete system: Edwar Orozco
The Public Services Company of the District of Santa Marta -Essmar- has been mentioned as responsible for the operation and administration of public lighting, although part of these functions was subcontracted. Legal review of these agreements will be crucial to determine any irregularities.
However, the representative Edwar Fernando Orozco Oñate has mentioned that although the operation of public lighting has been transferred to the Public Services Company of the District of Santa Marta -Essmar-, at this time, it is important to remember that the ultimate responsibility falls on the Local government.
Likewise, the District is primarily responsible for the provision of public services, which means that it has the primary responsibility for ensuring that these services are provided appropriately and efficiently to the community.
Meanwhile, in the line of investigations, concern arises about the state of the bay median, an area that has been without public lighting service for a long time. Which reflects a broader problem of an obsolete system classified as one of the worst in Colombia.
“Without a doubt, we have an obsolete system, in fact, classified as one of the worst in the country, which tells us and we totally agree that it is not right,” said Edwar Fernando Orozco Oñate.
On the other hand, the official announced that the entire situation regarding this issue will soon be announced, including details about the contract, investments made, and the destination of the funds collected through the public lighting tax. This thorough analysis seeks to shed light on the system’s shortcomings and provide answers to a community that has long been in the dark, both literally and figuratively.
Solution to threats and extortion
Meanwhile, from another perspective, security in Santa Marta has been another cause for great concern. Recent incidents, such as threats against community leaders, reflect an environment of growing insecurity.
Given this, the representative of the Santa Marta District Edwar Fernando Orozco Oñate pointed out: «We are very concerned about the security situation in the city. “We have received numerous complaints about extortion, robberies and other criminal acts that affect the community.”
The worrying security situation in the city of Santa Marta is a cause for distress, especially after recent incidents reported by community leaders who have been subjected to intimidation and threats. The recent emergence of a document in Taganga, which has been the subject of dispute over its origin and authenticity, adds an additional layer of tension to the situation.
The Ombudsman is committed to guaranteeing the fundamental rights of citizens, especially those who face threats or intimidation. Efforts are being coordinated with other entities to develop a Comprehensive Security Plan that addresses these concerns.
Facing the water crisis
On the other hand, the situation of the drinking water supply also becomes an issue that is affecting all neighborhoods of the city. Given this problem, the question arises about the response of the Public Services Company of the District of Santa Marta -Essmar-.
The entity in charge of water supply, particularly in relation to the care of critical points where residents have been without access to the vital liquid for up to 25 days. We seek to understand how the distribution system through tank cars has worked to address this crisis.
The Personería of Santa Marta has been actively involved in following up on this issue, in response to the numerous complaints received from different neighborhoods. A monitoring and coordination table has been established that involves various entities.
SEE:Santa Marta has not managed to attract attention in 12 years like Bogotá did in 24 hours due to water shortage
Which includes the provincial attorney’s office, the regional attorney’s office and various district and mayoral offices. This multidisciplinary approach seeks to address the situation in a comprehensive and coordinated manner, with the aim of finding effective solutions and providing relief to residents affected by water shortages.
“It is evident that the provision of public services must follow institutional procedures and not depend solely on the will of local leaders.” Edwar Fernando Orozco Oñate commented. “We are working collaboratively with relevant authorities to address these issues and ensure adequate water supply for all citizens.” The representative concluded.
