817.48 Earthquake of 1931/87: Telegram
The Minister in Nicaragua (Hanna) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 7—2:22 a.m.]
Highly chlorinated water from the former system is in the mains today under low pressure. Breaks in the mains and connections are being repaired. One of the pumps at the new source will be uncovered by the end of the week.
Colonel Sultan’s local committee is making satisfactory progress in organizing food distribution in Managua. His committee is perfecting arrangements to establish three or four market places where those who have money can purchase fruits and other food supplies from producers near Managua. This will be the first step in reestablishing normal commercial transactions. Practically all merchandise was destroyed by the earthquake and subsequent fire. I do not know of a single general supply store with merchandise.
We have taken up the question of providing shelter before the rainy season begins in about 6 weeks and expect to have a matured plan by tomorrow.
The fire is under control and appears to be definitely checked.
The relief from other Central American Republics and Panama continues to render valuable assistance.