Urgent Checks Needed for Building Safety in Izmir

A recent disaster study in Türkiye’s Izmir revealed alarming details about the city’s building stock. Out of nearly 903,000 buildings in 30 districts, 50% urgently need safety checks, and 36% were found to be illegal. Prof. Dr. Celalettin Kozanoğlu of Izmir University of Economics highlighted the severity, stating, “Izmir is frightening, but fear is of no use to death.” He emphasized the need for immediate action, noting the city’s vulnerability due to its aging infrastructure. This study underscores the urgent necessity for urban transformation to mitigate earthquake risks.