The number of people who lost their lives in the 6.8 magnitude earthquake with epicentre in Sivrice, Elazığ is increasing.

As the rescue work continues, AFAD (Disaster and Emergency Management) and UMKE (National Medical Rescue Team) have recovered four dead bodies in the Sürsürü neighborhood of Elazığ, bringing the death toll to 35.

In the meantime, Amed branch of Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) has launched an aid campaign for the victims. The HDP organization called for the collection of tents, blankets, dry food, diaper, sanitary pad and clothes.

According to the statement, the aid will be collected at Ergani Municipality before being delivered to the earthquake victims. HDP called on people to convey their aid to HDP branches.

Earlier today, HDP deputies Ayşe Acar Başaran, Şevin Coşkun, Erdal Aydemir and deputy co-chair of Local Administrations Salim Kaplan visited the earthquake victims in Elazığ. The delegation visited the places where the people found shelter after the earthquake.

The HDP delegation informed the public that the 27 municipalities they visited were ready to support them and that they have started working to meet the needs of the victims.

After the earthquake, 599 aftershocks occurred.

The following information were shared by AFAD earlier today:

* 72 buildings destroyed

* 514 buildings heavily damaged

* 409 of the damaged buildings are moderately damaged