Overview

The February 6, 2023 earthquake devastated Northwest Syria, compounding the hardships caused by years of conflict. The disaster resulted in widespread destruction of homes, infrastructure, schools, and hospitals, leaving thousands of individuals displaced and in dire need of humanitarian aid. Over 334,000 households were affected, displacing more than 311,000 people, of whom 67% were women and children. The earthquake claimed 4,256 lives, injured 11,774 others, and significantly impacted humanitarian workers, with over 255 reported casualties. As of a year later, the region continues to face immense challenges, including deteriorating infrastructure, food insecurity, and limited access to education and healthcare services.

Activities

• SRD played a vital role in responding to the crisis by implementing comprehensive relief operations. Key activities included:
• Health Care Services: Establishing clinics for children, women, and inpatients, addressing malnutrition, providing first aid, and offering medical referrals.
• Ambulance Services: Facilitating emergency response, patient transport, and easing hospital burdens in areas like Ghosn Al Zeytoon, Dar’a Al Farat, and Idlib.
• Protection and Mental Health Services: Deploying response teams to assist displaced individuals in Azaz, Jindires, and Idlib, and providing mental health services to help victims cope with trauma.
• Distribution of Essential Supplies: Delivering NFI kits with blankets, clothing, and hygiene products, along with food kits for families in need.
• Tent Installation: Setting up three large tents to serve as a field hospital, enabling continuity of medical services provided by Al-Rafah Hospital.
• School Rehabilitation: In partnership with the Turkish government in Gaziantep, SRD rehabilitated five earthquake-damaged schools, ensuring access to education for affected children.
• Solar System Installation: In coordination with the Turkish government, SRD installed solar energy systems in temporary shelters for displaced people in the earthquake-affected city of Maraş, providing a sustainable energy solution.

Impact

SRD’s efforts significantly mitigated the immediate aftermath of the disaster by providing critical healthcare, psychological support, and life-saving assistance. The deployment of medical teams and ambulances ensured timely care for thousands of injured individuals. Protection and mental health services offered a lifeline to victims dealing with trauma. The provision of NFI and food kits alleviated basic survival challenges, while the establishment of a field hospital restored access to essential healthcare services. Despite these efforts, challenges remain, with displaced populations, strained healthcare systems, and worsening food insecurity underscoring the need for continued humanitarian intervention.