An earthquake of 6.7 degree in Richter’s scale hit part of Iran near the town of Bam on 26 December 2003 early morning. Total number of 41,000 casualties in the whole area, in the town of Bam 90 per cent of all buildings were destroyed.
The Czech Republic was officially requested by the Iranian Government for rescue assistance in aftermath of the catastrophic earthquake on the same day. Ministry of Interior-GD FRS cooperated with the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs and based on acquired information it was decided to send 18-member USAR team, which came in the international rescue operation in the Iranian Islamic Republic.
Another earthquake of 3.5 degree in Richter’s scale hit the same area of Iran on 2 January 2004, fortunately without any casualties and damages.
More detailed information:
Departure: 26 December 2003 at night from Prague to Kerman
Arrival: 29 December 2003 from Kerman to Prague
Transport: TU 144 aircraft of the Czech Army
Accommodation: in tents
Meals: from own supplies
Number of extricated persons by the Czech unit: one alive, 51 dead