NEW DELHI: President Pranab Mukherjee Friday condoled the loss of lives in Turkey's coal mine disaster and said that India stands by the people of Turkey in this difficult hour.
In a message to Turkish President Abdullah Gul, Mukherjee said: "On behalf of the government and the people of India, I write to express deepest condolences on the loss of lives and destruction caused by the devastating accident that occurred at Soma coal mine in Turkey."
"I understand that search efforts are underway. The people of India stand by the people of Turkey in this difficult hour and wish all success to those rendering the rescue and relief operations," he added.
The toll in Turkey's coal mine accident Tuesday was one of the worst industrial disasters ever in Turkey.