By IANS/AKI,
L’Aquila (Italy) : Thousands of people gathered here to mark the first anniversary of the devastating earthquake that destroyed many parts of Italy’s medieval city, killing 308 people and leaving thousands homeless.
A bell tolled 308 times Monday to commemorate each victim of the earthquake that struck at 3.32 a.m. on April 6 last year burying victims in rubble.
Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi praised his government’s rescue and relief efforts in a message read out at a packed city council meeting.
The meeting was attended by hundreds of residents, many carrying placards and criticising authorities for not delivering basic services to residents.
“The city is still stuck, emptied of its inhabitants,” said Anna Colasanto, an activist.
Around 14,000 people, displaced by the earthquake, have been re-housed in temporary accommodations.