KTMMOB: Scientific and Technical Data Guide School Building Decisions – BRTK
President of the Union of Chambers of Turkish Cypriot Engineers and Architects (KTMMOB), Tunç Adanır, has addressed recent accusations regarding the handling of earthquake risk reports for school buildings. Adanır emphasized that KTMMOB and the Chamber of Civil Engineers (IMO) have consistently made decisions based on scientific and technical data, and have never been influenced by political power.
Adanır responded to statements made by Tahir Gökçebel, Secretary General of the Turkish Cypriot Secondary Education Teachers’ Union, criticizing KTMMOB and IMO for allegedly withholding earthquake risk reports for schools. Adanır expressed surprise and frustration at Gökçebel’s accusations, describing them as “meaningless and unfortunate” and urging caution in making further statements that could further damage the union’s image.
In response to the earthquake disaster on February 6, KTMMOB mobilized voluntarily to assess the risk of schools and hospitals in the country. Adanır explained that after the release of the risk ranking report, the second stage involved taking samples from school buildings, conducting laboratory tests on concrete and iron samples, and carrying out project studies to assess building performance during earthquakes.
Adanır reassured the public that engineers will continue to make necessary decisions regarding buildings based on scientific and technical data. He emphasized that KTMMOB and IMO will continue to operate independently and without influence from political power.
The union’s commitment to transparency and scientific rigor in addressing earthquake risks remains steadfast, and Adanır urged Gökçebel to reconsider his statements in order to avoid further damage to the union’s reputation.
