NewsGate Press Network

 According to various media reports the death toll in Turkey-Syria earthquake has crosses 21,000 when last reports came-in on Friday morning the 10th of February 2023.

Bad weather and cold conditions have affected rescue operations as well as added difficulties to the survivors.

Officials say 17,674 people have died in Turkey and 3,377 in Syria, bringing the confirmed total to 21,051.

Rescue efforts, on the fourth day, are being conducted round-the-clock to save those still trapped under the rubble.

Some of the heaviest devastation occurred near the quake’s epicentre between Kahramanmaras and Gaziantep, where entire city blocks lay in ruins.

The Turkish government officials were quoted by media outlets stating that nearly 3,000 buildings, including public hospitals, collapsed in seven cities.

India has initiated “Operation Dost” to help Turkey and Syria in the aftermath of the quakes. Under the operation, India has sent rescue teams, medical teams and other supplies to the two disaster-hit nations.

The Indian Army has also set up a field hospital in Hatay which will is equipped with surgical and emergency wards.

The United States today announced an initial $85 million package for emergency relief for Turkey and Syria. America said the funding will go to partners on the ground “to deliver urgently needed aid for millions of people” including through food, shelter and emergency health services.