Death toll in Turkey, Syria earthquakes crosses 4000

The death toll in the three earthquakes that hit Turkey and Syria in the last two days has crossed 4,000.

Thousands more have been left injured and the search for survivors is going on amid freezing temperatures.

Several countries including India are sending in supplies and assisting
with rescue operations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep grief over the loss of
lives due to the Earthquake in Syria and Turkey. Modi has said that we
share the grief of the Syrian people and remain committed to provide
assistance and support in this difficult time.

In a tweet, the Prime Minister said;

“Deeply pained to learn that the devastating earthquake has also affected Syria. My sincere condolences to the families of the victims. We share the grief of Syrian people and remain committed to provide assistance and
support in this difficult time.”

In another tweet, he said: “Anguished by the loss of lives and damage of
property due to the Earthquake in Turkey. Condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon. India stands in solidarity with thepeople of Turkey and is ready to offer all possible assistance to cope with
this tragedy.”

The magnitude 7.8 quake rippled through both countries early on Monday,
toppling entire apartment blocks, wrecking hospitals, and leaving thousands more people injured or homeless.

As rescue operations continued, freezing winter weather hampered search
efforts for survivors through the night. Temperatures fell close to freezing overnight, worsening conditions for people trapped under rubble or left homeless.