At least 85 people have died and 350 were injured in an earthquake
that shook the Turkish province of Bingol at 3:27 local time on 1
May 2003. According to the local seismological center, the epicenter
of the earthquake that measured 6.4 on the Richter Scale was situated
in the Diyarbakir region in southeastern Turkey.
Many buildings have collapsed, including a four-storey dormitory
of a boarding school near Bingol trapping around 100 students. Frantic
rescue efforts are being made as many people are still believed to
be trapped under debris.
The full extent of the damage and casualties is as yet unknown as
Bingol is a rural and remote area, where it is difficult to get precise
information out and rescue workers and equipment in. According to
official information sources, the electricity and communication lines
in the affected area have been cut since this morning thus exacerbating
the situation.
The National Civil Defense and Search & Rescue Teams have been
deployed in the affected region this morning and the Turkish Government
has not yet requested international assistance.
The ACT Co-ordinating office has established a communication line
with a representative of Turkish ACT (TACT) who reported that they
(TACT) will continue to monitor the situation. However, they will
not get involved unless additional assistance is requested by the
Turkish Government.
The ACT Coordinating office will remain in close contact with the
TACT representative in Turkey and will share further information as
it becomes available.
