, August 1, Asia-Plus - President Emomali Rahmonov presided over an extraordinary meeting with participation of members of the government and heads of a number ministries and organizations yesterday evening.  The meeting discussed issues related to quakes that hit southern Tajikistan last Saturday.  

According to presidential press service, the president appealed to enterprises, local and international organizations for assistance to remove the quakes’ effects and provide assistance to the earthquake victims.

Deputy Prime Minister, Asadullo Ghulomov, reported on a progress of rehabilitation works in the earthquake site.

According to Mr. Ghulomov, two quakes shook southern Tajikistan Saturday, at 5:12 a.m. and 3:57 p.m.   Three people were killed and at least 20 others were injured in those quake.  More than 1,100 residential buildings were damaged by the tremors; of them, 700 houses were destroyed completely.  The quakes also damaged transformers and water pipelines. 

 During the meeting it was noted that transformers and water pipelines had already been restored.

Food aid has already been provided to the affected people.  President Rahmonov also ordered to provided money from the presidential reserve fund for purchasing 1,400 tons of cement and distribute those building materials to the families that had been left homeless.

The meeting also considered issues related to delivering medicines to the quake-rocked district taking adequate measures to prevent spread of infectious diseases there. 

A special bank account has been opened at Tajikistan ’s “Amonatbonk” (Tajik savings bank) for providing assistance to the earthquake victims – 26202972800114101000 MFO – 350101626.  Correspondent account – 20402972316264.  The “Amonatbonk” board has transferred 50,000 Somonis to this bank account.