In the aftermath of the devastating earthquakes that struck the Antakya region in southern Turkey six months ago, a pressing humanitarian crisis has emerged as hundreds of survivors contend with water scarcity and harsh living conditions. The situation has been exacerbated by a scorching Mediterranean heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit).
People residing in makeshift accommodations, such as tents and containers, are grappling with not only the sweltering heat but also clouds of dust stirred up by ongoing demolition work, Al Jazeera reports on August 6. Basic necessities like water, food, and hygiene have become scarce commodities, with individuals like
Ayhan Tekin, 43, highlighting the challenges they face, including the inability to shower and perform proper cleaning due to the dearth of water. The scarcity of clean water has not only brought about immediate health concerns but also poses the risk of long-term respiratory issues due to the dusty conditions resulting from demolition activities.
Health experts like Sevdar Yilmaz, the head of Hatay Medical Chamber, emphasise the potential for a surge in diseases such as asthma, as well as respiratory and even more severe conditions like cancers. The lack of proper hygiene has already led to cases of illness, including diarrhoea, due to inadequate sanitation.
The water crisis has exposed shortcomings in the infrastructure and water supply system, with Hatay municipality's water and sewage agency, HATSU, facing challenges in meeting the demands of the affected population. HATSU General Manager Ikbal Polat acknowledges the agency's increased workload and the strain of supplying water to temporary settlements. Outside support, initially robust following the earthquakes, has dwindled, leaving a gap in assistance for the region's recovery efforts.
Hatay Mayor Lutfu Savas points out that HATSU's customer base has significantly decreased, affecting its income and ability to address mounting problems. The government's aid coordination agency, AFAD, appears to have a reduced presence, leaving many municipalities grappling with the aftermath on their own.
The dire situation extends beyond urban areas, as individuals in more remote locations face similar challenges. The lack of access to clean water has led to health concerns and uncertainty about the future.
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