PM Modi tweets over Turkey Earthquake, extends helping hand to the nation

New Delhi : Within hours of a strong earthquake in Turkey, India dispatched search and rescue teams of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), medical teams and relief material. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also tweeted on the situation and assured all possible health from the nation.

"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 the people of Turkey and is ready to offer all possible assistance to cope with this tragedy," Prime Minister Modi tweeted in the morning. 

A few hours later, he added, "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."

Two teams of NDRF, comprising of 100 personnel and trained dogs has been dispatched. The relief material will be sent in co-ordination with the Turkish government and Indian Embassy in Ankara.

India's gesture plays an important role as the two nations have been dealing with ups and downs in their bilateral relations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had held an unannounced meeting in September last year in Samarkand on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit.

As per last update received, more than 1200 people had lost their lives in the earthquake that impacted Turkey and Syria. Social media is flooded with footage showing how buildings collapsed in the region within seconds.