Turkey Earthquake Survivors Struggle With Recovery Two Years On

People toss carnations into the Orontes River as they mark the one-year anniversary of the country's catastrophic earthquake, in the city of Antakya, southern Turkey, Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024. (AP

It has been two years since a powerful earthquake struck Turkey's southern region, leaving a trail of destruction and loss. The magnitude 7.8 earthquake, followed by a second tremor, resulted in the destruction or damage of hundreds of thousands of buildings in 11 provinces, claiming over 53,000 lives in Turkey and another 6,000 in neighboring Syria.

Survivors like Omer Aydin, a single father of three, continue to grapple with the aftermath of the disaster. Aydin vividly recalls the harrowing sounds of collapsing homes and cries for help during the earthquake. His own house in Iskenderun split in two, forcing his family to endure days of cold in makeshift shelter.

Currently residing in a temporary housing settlement known as a 'container city,' Aydin faces financial challenges as he struggles to provide for his family on a meager state pension. Despite occasional work as an electrician, opportunities are scarce in Iskenderun. His eldest son's ongoing cancer treatment adds to the family's financial strain.

Over 53,000 lives lost in Turkey and 6,000 in neighboring Syria.

7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Turkey's southern region, causing widespread destruction.

Omer Aydin, a single father of three, recalls the traumatic experience of the earthquake.

Many survivors reside in temporary container cities, facing financial challenges.

Government constructing hundreds of thousands of homes for survivors.

While the government is constructing hundreds of thousands of homes for survivors, concerns about furnishing and utility costs loom large for Aydin and others in similar situations.

On the second anniversary of the earthquake, special prayers were offered for the deceased, and survivors paid respects at cemeteries. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan noted progress in housing construction, with aims to complete nearly half a million homes, shops, and workspaces by 2025.

Despite these efforts, many survivors, including Aydin, continue to reside in temporary container cities, facing challenges in securing sustainable incomes and battling rising despair. The road to recovery remains long and demanding, requiring ongoing support and solidarity.

For individuals like Songul Erol, who is slowly rebuilding her life in Samandag, the journey towards normalcy is marked by resilience and determination. With support from the Turkish Red Crescent, Erol has reopened her business and dreams of a stable home for her family.

As Turkey commemorates the earthquake's anniversary, the echoes of the disaster serve as a poignant reminder of the enduring struggles faced by survivors as they strive to rebuild their lives and communities.