Santa Cruz del Islote, the world's most crowded island off the coast of Colombia, is home to over 800 people living on a 2.4-acre patch. Residents face overcrowding, lack of infrastructure, and environmental challenges, but maintain a strong sense of community and peace with no crime reported on the island.
Key Points
Over 800 people live on a 2.4-acre patch, creating overcrowding and lack of space for expansion
Residents face challenges like limited drinking water, absence of sewage and garbage disposal plants, and unreliable electricity
Despite environmental and infrastructure challenges, residents maintain a strong sense of community and peace
Pros
Strong sense of community and peace with no reported crime on the island
Unique location near coral reef and reduced wave impact provides natural protection
Residents maintain deep bonds to their homeland and focus on shared happiness and positive values
Cons
Overcrowding with up to 10 people sleeping in the same room
Lack of infrastructure including no sewer system, limited drinking water, and absence of sewage and garbage disposal plants
Reliance on outside supplies for essentials like food and water due to limited farming space