Turkey Disaster Management Agency Deploys 3,433 Rescue Workers
[Asia Economy Reporter Ki Ha-young] On the 24th (local time), a magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck eastern Turkey, resulting in a rising death toll of 31 people.
On the 26th, Turkey's Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) reported that the death toll in Elazig and nearby Malatya, where the earthquake occurred, has reached 31, with 1,607 injured. More than 80 buildings collapsed in Elazig and Malatya, and 645 buildings were severely damaged.
AFAD has deployed 3,433 rescue workers and 17 search dogs to conduct rescue operations, and so far has rescued 45 people from building debris. AFAD has set up over 9,500 tents and provided more than 17,000 meals to the displaced.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan canceled his scheduled speech in Istanbul the previous day and visited Elazig and Malatya respectively to assess the damage. He promised, "The government will do whatever is necessary for those who need homes," adding, "No one will be left without a home."
Leaders from around the world also expressed condolences to the victims and their families. United Nations Secretary-General Ant?nio Guterres said, "I am deeply saddened by the loss of many lives and property," and added, "The UN stands in solidarity with Turkey and will provide necessary support."
Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a message of condolence to President Erdogan, stating, "Russia shares the pain and sorrow of those who lost relatives in the disaster," and wished for "the speedy recovery of the injured."
French President Emmanuel Macron wrote on Twitter, "I stand with the victims and their families," and said, "We are ready to support in solidarity." German Chancellor Angela Merkel also expressed condolences to the victims and their families and promised support for rescue efforts.
Turkey's state-run Anadolu Agency reported that more than 530 aftershocks have occurred near Elazig and Malatya since the main quake, nine of which were magnitude 4.0 or higher.
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