Latest News

From vandalism to gang violence: Bogotá’s perception of insecurity on the rise

By Richard Emblin - February 28, 2025

Bogotá’s insecurity crisis worsens as masked attackers vandalize the historic Tren de la Sabana near Corferias. Mayor Galán implements new security measures, but rising homicides and gang violence fuel public concern. Authorities debate reinstating motorcycle passenger restrictions to curb crime.

Bogotá could lift water rationing in April, cautions Mayor Galán

By The City Paper Staff - February 24, 2025

Bogotá Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán cautioned that water rationing in the Colombian capital could end in April as the Chingaza reservoir system continues to recover. Water rationing was implemented in April, 2024, as the city experienced a severe drought.

Bogotá prepares for first No Car Day of 2025 on Thursday

By The City Paper Staff - February 4, 2025

On February 6, Bogotá will hold its first No Car and No Motorcycle Day of 2025, encouraging alternative transportation. TransMilenio and SITP will operate at full capacity, while 101 km of special bike lanes and 3,300 shared bicycles will be available.

Wildfire erupts in Colombia’s Chingaza National Park, arson suspected

By The City Paper Staff - January 15, 2025

A wildfire in Colombia’s Chingaza National Park is threatening a high-altitude wetland that supplies Bogotá with water amid ongoing rationing. Suspected arson, hot weather, and strong winds complicate containment efforts by emergency crews, the military and local authorities.

An extra 1,500 cops on Bogotá streets with start of Christmas season

By Richard Emblin - December 9, 2024

Bogotá has mobilized 1,500 police officers to enhance safety during the Christmas season. Focused on nightlife, commerce, and tourism areas, the initiative includes advanced technology and strengthened patrols.

Travelers pass through Bogotá's El Dorado airport.

Colombia demands proof from UN of 20,000 bodies at Bogotá’s El Dorado Airport

By The City Paper Staff - December 6, 2024

Colombian officials have challenged a UN claim that 20,000 unidentified bodies are stored in a hangar at Bogotá’s El Dorado Airport as baseless. A thorough investigation found no evidence supporting this dangerous allegation. Bogotá Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán has demanded proof, warning the unverified claim could undermine trust in the Colombian capital.

Mayor Galán launches police offensive to reclaim Bogotá’s Centro from organized crime

By The City Paper Staff - November 21, 2024

Bogotá Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán and Police Chief José Gualdrón launched a major operation to recover Bogotá’s city center from criminal organizations.

Bogotá braces for more powerful storms following flash flooding

By The City Paper Staff - November 7, 2024

Bogotá braces for more powerful storms after severe flooding on November 6. The storm caused major traffic disruptions, school closures, and overwhelmed the city’s drainage systems.

Bogotá heat wave and water crisis could lead to Disaster Declaration from Mayor Galán

By Richard Emblin - October 18, 2024

As Bogotá faces a water crisis with extreme heat, Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán may be forced to declare a state of emergency for the Colombian capital. With reservoirs levels at critical lows, an extended drought could lead to water shortages during 2025.

Strict water rationing for Bogotá as drought persists across central Colombia

By Richard Emblin - September 21, 2024

gotá is returning to its nine-day water rationing scheme as the Chingaza reservoir system remains precariously low. Mayor Galán warned that if the drought persists across central Colombia, Bogotá could face “Day Zero”.

Government sets limits for water usage in Bogotá as reservoir levels decline

By The City Paper Staff - September 11, 2024

Bogotá is implementing stricter water consumption limits as reservoir levels drop to 47%. New regulations lower the threshold for surcharges on residential and commercial users. The city urges conservation, warning of penalties and extended rationing if consumption patterns don’t improve.

Bogotá’s water crisis worsens as reservoir levels remain stagnant

By The City Paper Staff - September 2, 2024

Bogotá Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán may tighten water rationing as reservoir levels drop below 50%. The anticipated rainfall in August failed to materialize, despite forecasts from the national meteorological agency, Ideam, predicting La Niña would boost water levels.