Attachments
Highlights
• On 21 May 2013, AFAD - the Disaster and Emergency Management Agency of Government of Turkey announced that the total number of Syrians registered and accommodated in 17 camps in 8 provinces has increased to 194,970 including 336 Syrians receiving medical treatment in hospitals.
• AFAD reported that during the last 24 hrs of 20-21 May, 507 new arrival Syrians were registered and accommodated in the camps while 320 Syrians voluntarily returned to Syria.
• Upon request from AFAD, local authorities in Adana province identified an appropriate place to accommodate up to 3,000 people. The location is a former factory, which will require renovation before it can be used to accommodate refugees. It is possible that new arrivals as well as urban Syrians from Reyhanli will be accommodated in the new location.
• In Adana - Saricam camp, local government officials informed UNHCR that the health facilities in the camp include dental care, pediatrics, gynecology, and internal disease units as well as a small lab where basic tests can be done within the camp site. Local authorities stated that they are intending to establish a small hospital with 20 beds for camp residents.
• UNHCR met with AFAD Directorate in Mersin where officials estimate some up to 20,000 Syrians are living in urban areas. Medical assistance to Syrians is provided free-of-charge by state hospitals. AFAD officials in Mersin informed UNHCR that they are unable to identify a suitable area to establish a camp for up to 15,000 people.
• The national media, based on a statement from the Government of Turkey Ministry of Customs and Trades, reported that the official border crossing in Yayladagi town of Hatay province will be closed for 1 month period for security reasons as well as renovation/maintenance of the border gate's infrastructure. Reportedly during the renovation, Turkish nationals and third country nationals with valid passports will still be admitted to Turkey.