UNITED NATIONS ASSESSES QUAKE DAMAGE IN IRAN

UNITED NATIONS ASSESSES QUAKE DAMAGE IN IRAN

NEW YORK, 29 December (OCHA) -- Yesterday, the United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination team in Bam undertook a joint aerial assessment with a team from the United Kingdom.

They overflew at low altitude all six search-and-rescue operational zones in 21 districts in Bam and recorded the scale of physical damage.  Several square kilometre areas were completely destroyed.  Areas near the historic Old Fort, old city and near the football stadium are particularly badly damaged.  The mission noted less than 10 per cent of the number of people expected in badly affected areas, which reflects a rapid population movement out of Bam.

The assessment confirmed that the majority of destroyed buildings were of the traditional mud bricks typical of the area.  Limited amounts of supplies were being moved around the area, and two distribution sites viewed from the air appeared to be well organized.  Public buildings, including schools, may also be severely affected, in addition to the two hospitals in Bam.  A detailed ground assessment is required for the 15 outlying villages encircling Bam, which have also been affected by earthquake.

Although a consolidated assessment is not available yet, official government figures now indicate that approximately 20,000 people have died, and the number of fatalities could reach 30,000.  In addition, 20,000 have been injured, and 70,000 are homeless, many of who are staying with family members.  Due to continuing aftershocks and lack of shelter, people are sleeping in the open as a precautionary measure.

Electrical power has been restored to certain areas of Bam and major water pipelines have been brought back into service.  Work is ongoing to re-establish power, water and communication links.

Some 20,000 extra Iranian volunteers have been mobilized and are now operating in the disaster area.  Thirty-four urban search-and-rescues teams from 28 countries, with 1,345 personnel, are also at work.  While search-and-rescue activities continue, it is clear that there will be massive requirements for emergency relief aid, as well as medium- and longer-term assistance.

The airports in Bam and Kerman are reportedly overwhelmed by large numbers of incoming planes.  Aircraft landing at Bam Airport can be unloaded by hand only.  Airport buildings are damaged and considered unsafe to use.

For further information, please call:  Stephanie Bunker, OCHA NY, tel.:  917 367 5126, mobile:  917 892 1679; or Elizabeth Byrs, OCHA Geneva, tel.:  41 22 917 2653, mobile:  41(0) 79 472 4570.

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