Guatemala’s Fuego Volcano Erupts Again
Guatemala’s Fuego volcano erupted on Thursday, causing a massive cloud of ash and pyroclastic flows. The ash column extended over 6,000 meters above sea level, and ash falls were reported up to 50 kilometers away from the volcano. The country’s disaster center, Conred, has warned of further eruptions and mudslides from the forecasted rainfall, and people in affected areas are advised to stay informed and follow instructions from authorities. Fuego has erupted every four to five years on average, and the 2018 eruption killed 215 people. The eruption highlights the importance of taking necessary precautions to protect the lives and livelihoods of those living near these potentially dangerous natural wonders.
Costa Rica Strengthens Beach Safety with New Agreement
The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) and the Red Cross have signed a four-year agreement to increase lifeguard presence on at least eight of the country’s most visited beaches. The agreement will allocate 1.2 million colones ($1,923,076 US dollars) and 300 million colones ($480,769 US dollars) annually to cover salaries and equipment for 30 lifeguards. From 2019 to 2023, the contracted lifeguards have carried out over 1,900 rescues and provided 409 first aid assistance, according to Costa Rican Red Cross data. The agreement aims to ensure the safety of national and foreign tourists on Costa Rica’s beaches, and the joint efforts of the two institutions were highlighted as essential for making the country a safe destination.
Costa Rican Fishermen Call for Investigation into INCOPESCA’s Trawl Fishing Research
Small-scale fishermen in Costa Rica are calling for an investigation into the Costa Rican Institute of Fisheries and Aquaculture (INCOPESCA) for attempting to reintroduce trawling. They are concerned about the cost and lack of proper methodology and scientific support for the studies, as well as INCOPESCA’s disregard of a Constitutional Court ruling issued ten years ago. Environmental organizations have also raised their voices against trawling. The fishermen are urging the government and other organizations to support their petition and ensure that the use of trawling does not harm the oceans or coastal communities’ livelihoods.
Costa Rica Proposes Law to Level Taxi and Ride-Hail Playing Field
President Rodrigo Chaves has announced a proposed Bill that will establish regulations to level the playing field between cab drivers and digital transportation platforms in Costa Rica. The proposed regulations include mandatory technical vehicle inspections, registration with social security, filing and paying of income tax, and having third-party damage policies. Both sides have responded positively, with the proposal seen as a significant step towards creating a fair and level playing field for all transportation services in Costa Rica. Specific details of the Bill are yet to be known, but it is expected to be included soon