Earth Scientist Prof. Dr. Naci Görür spoke about Istanbul drowning in concrete. Görür pointed out that the consequences of such dense construction will be severe and said that local governments should take action against these buildings.
Aerial images of Güngören, Bahçelievler and Bağcılar revealed the picture of a concretized city. In these images, the almost complete absence of open and green areas drew attention. Earth Scientist and Earthquake Expert Prof. Dr. Naci Görür evaluated this situation and said the following: “The higher the building density in a region, the higher the risk of destruction and consequent loss of life and property. There is a mistake in the understanding that allows and accepts this situation. Such a city and planning should not have been done in the first place, but unfortunately such a mistake was made.”
“Will investigate whether it is resilient or not”
Görür answered the question “So what do we do now?” as follows: “In order to protect the lives of our citizens, the mayor of that district will first investigate whether the building stock is earthquake resistant or not. He will either demolish or retrofit the buildings that are not earthquake resistant. After these determinations, it will be necessary to demolish the buildings without mercy in order not to endanger anyone. A law should be passed in this direction. There is no other solution.”
“You will create transformation areas in dense areas”
Görür continued by saying, “You will make a mistake if you try to build new buildings in the same way where you demolished them.” “Urban transformation is not just about renovating buildings, it also involves planning. All components that need to be made earthquake resistant should be focused on. Transformation areas should be created in very dense areas. For example, if 10 thousand houses are built in the transformation area, you will demolish 10 thousand problematic houses in the city. You will turn these areas into green areas and parks. You will also give new, safe homes to those living in the evacuated areas.”
“If you look down on the people…”
Stating that these steps will be welcomed by the public, Görür added “If you look down on the people and send them to distant places, they will not accept it. If you build ‘beautiful earthquake-resistant houses’ in appropriate places within the district and turn the evacuated areas into green areas, no one will object. Even in the worst case, safety of life and public interest take priority. The state must be compassionate and understanding. Neither citizens nor governments should pursue rent-seeking.”
