Earthquake claims over 46,000 lives, rescue operations nearing end

(Patria) - The death toll in the devastating earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria on February 6 has exceeded 46,000.

Many families whose members are still under the rubble are losing hope and only want to bury their dead with dignity.

More than 345,000 apartments have been destroyed in Turkey, reports Al Jazeera Balkans. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that humanitarian aid is necessary for 26 million people in Turkey and Syria.

In Syria, where more than 5,800 people have died from the earthquake, authorities in the northwest of the country controlled by Damascus do not allow entry into the area, according to leaders of the World Food Programme. This hinders the operations of humanitarians, deepening the crisis.

Rescue efforts in earthquake-stricken Turkey are nearing their end today, almost two weeks after the deadliest disaster in the country's recent history occurred. Many are praying only for bodies so they can bury their loved ones with dignity.

The head of Turkey's Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), Yunus Sezer, announced that search and rescue will largely conclude on Sunday evening.