81 Cities Undergo Urban Transformation: 400,000 Houses Annually – Latest Update
The Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change in Turkey is actively working on urban transformation studies to prepare the country for disasters and increase the resilience of cities. Minister Mehmet Özhaseki stated that their goal is to complete the transformation in Turkey by renewing the building stock and ensuring that no buildings remain unconverted. He emphasized the importance of addressing the earthquake reality of the country and mentioned that, so far, 2 million 44 thousand 964 independent units have been completed as part of the urban transformation works. The ministry is determined to continue these efforts until all cities in Turkey are prepared for disasters, particularly earthquakes.
The significance of urban transformation studies is further highlighted following the occurrence of two major earthquakes in Kahramanmaras in February 2023. It has become evident that such initiatives are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of the population.
Under the Law No. 6306 on Transformation of Areas Under Disaster Risk, implemented on May 16, 2012, urban transformation works are being carried out across Turkey at a rapid pace. The Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, along with local administrations, relevant organizations, and citizens, is leading these efforts. The objective is to minimize the destructive impact of earthquakes, resulting in the transformation of 11 disaster cities and various areas in Turkey, with a particular focus on Istanbul. The General Directorate of Infrastructure and Urban Transformation Services, operating under the Ministry, is actively involved in identifying risky structures in all 81 provinces of Turkey and continuing the urban transformation process.
According to the Ministry’s statement, a total of 1 million 918 thousand 855 independent units have been included in the scope of urban transformation, which comprises risky areas, reserve building areas, and risky structures. Out of these, 977 thousand 874 units have been demolished, and the construction of 2 million 44 thousand 964 independent units has been completed. Additionally, the construction of an additional 68 thousand 551 independent units and the project work for 220 thousand 589 independent units are currently ongoing.
The Ministry also provided information regarding the urban transformation works in risky areas and reserve building areas throughout the provinces of Turkey. So far, a total of 39.8 billion liras have been allocated for various urban transformation applications, including rent assistance, interest support, expropriation expenses, project studies, and construction activities. The present value of this amount is 89.9 billion liras. Furthermore, 8 billion 500 million TL of rental support has been provided. The Ministry aims to transform 2 million houses, approximately 400 thousand houses each year, within a 5-year period, prioritizing those that are deemed dangerous in terms of their ground condition and construction.
The commitment of the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change to urban transformation and disaster preparedness is evident. It is a significant step towards ensuring the safety and resilience of cities in Turkey, ultimately protecting the lives and well-being of its citizens.
