Demolition Begins for Earthquake-Prone Blocks in Büyükçekmece
Demolition of 4 Blocks at Risk of Earthquake in Büyükçekmece has Begun
In Büyükçekmece, a district in Istanbul, the demolition works for buildings consisting of 4 blocks and 42 independent sections have started. These buildings are considered to be at risk of earthquakes and are being demolished as part of the urban transformation project.
The decision to demolish these buildings was made after the recent earthquakes in Kahramanmaraş on February 6th, which raised concerns about the possibility of an earthquake in Istanbul. As a result, the demolition of risky buildings in Istanbul has been accelerated.
Büyükçekmece, where these buildings are located, is an area known to have risky buildings. Therefore, the district municipality has taken the initiative to demolish these buildings and ensure the safety of its residents.
Mayor Hasan Akgün of Büyükçekmece has been closely following the ongoing demolition works in the Fatih District. In a statement to the press, Akgün emphasized that the earthquake that will affect the Marmara Region, and especially Istanbul, is drawing closer with each passing day.
Approximately 100 apartments consisting of 13 blocks are planned to be demolished this week. Akgün highlighted that although these buildings may appear new and impressive from the outside, upon closer examination of the concrete and iron used in their construction, it becomes evident that they would not withstand an earthquake.
The district municipality of Büyükçekmece understands the importance of urban transformation, especially after the devastating Marmara Earthquake in 1999. Akgün stated, “Scientists predict that the earthquake will arrive in the early 2030s. Therefore, we must move with urgency. While we demolish 100 flats this week, we are also preparing to demolish other blocks.”
The demolition works in Büyükçekmece serve as a proactive approach to ensure the safety of its residents in the event of an earthquake. The district municipality is committed to carrying out the necessary measures to protect its citizens and mitigate the potential damage caused by seismic events.
As Istanbul continues to face the risk of earthquakes, efforts to identify and demolish risky buildings throughout the city are crucial for the safety of its residents. The demolition in Büyükçekmece is an important step in this process and serves as a model for other districts to prioritize urban transformation and ensure the structural safety of buildings.
