Inn an ambitious effort to safeguard its population from potential earthquakes, the Turkish government, under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has unveiled a plan to relocate approximately 1.5 mn residents of Istanbul to earthquake-resistant housing, TASS reported.
In the face of growing seismic risks, President Erdogan announced the government's plan to relocate a significant portion of Istanbul's population to earthquake-resistant housing. The move is part of broader efforts to fortify the country's earthquake preparedness. President Erdogan emphasized the urgency of this endeavor, stating that there is "no time to waste."
In addition, authorities are planning to build a new "sputnik-city" capable of accommodating 500,000 people. This city will span both sides of the artificial channel "Istanbul," envisioned to facilitate cargo ship transportation.
Turkey's Minister of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change, Mehmet Ojaseki, underscored the gravity of the situation. With Istanbul housing approximately 6 mn households, it is estimated that one in ten homes could be destroyed during an earthquake. This alarming statistic highlights the urgency of proactive measures to ensure public safety.
On February 6, 2023, substantial earthquakes with magnitudes ranging from 7.8 to 7.5 struck the southeast of Turkey and the north of Syria. Tragically, the quakes claimed the lives of approximately 60,000 people across both countries. The devastating impact of these seismic events has prompted discussions about urban planning standards and the accountability of developers. The aftermath saw arrests of figures in the construction business, with over 350 individuals being taken into custody by mid-July.
The Turkish government's proactive stance toward earthquake preparedness offers both challenges and opportunities. The large-scale relocation and construction projects necessitate meticulous planning and efficient execution. Addressing the concerns of the displaced population, ensuring infrastructure resilience, and mitigating potential environmental impacts are key challenges that must be navigated.
Earlier Daryo reported that individuals who survived the Antakya earthquakes are facing difficulties due to water shortages, high temperatures, and health risks. Insufficient infrastructure and dwindling assistance worsen the situation.
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