Hope fades for Iran quake survivors

HOPES of finding more earthquake survivors in Iran’s ancient city of Bam faded yesterday as the sharp, foul smell of death permeated the pulverised rubble, confirming that the mud-brick houses became instant tombs for more than 20,000 people.

Rescue workers from around the world joined Iranians in searching through powdery debris that left little room for air pockets allowing people to survive while awaiting help.

More than 20,000 bodies have been retrieved since last Friday's 6.6-magnitude earthquake shook the city and surrounding region in southeast Iran, a local government spokesman said.