In a groundbreaking initiative, the "Cyprus Earthquake Facts and What to Do" panel at Near East University has unveiled a comprehensive roadmap for earthquake preparedness in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). President Ersin Tatar emphasized collaboration with Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodoulidis on earthquake preparedness, highlighting ongoing resistance checks on buildings and expressing gratitude to involved institutions.
The panel featured insights from various experts, addressing earthquake zones, building hazards, disaster management, and soil behaviors. Stakeholders stressed the urgency of legal building inspections, presenting warnings issued before the February 6 earthquake. Chamber of Earth Science Engineers President Oğuz Vadilili urged President Tatar to prioritize inspections, emphasizing proactive measures and legal frameworks for a safer living environment.
The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and accurate geological assessments was highlighted by Near East University Rector Prof. Dr. Tamer Şanlıdağ and Chamber of Civil Engineers President Gürkan Yağcıoğlu. Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Gökçekuş, Dean of Near East University's Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, emphasized the need for re-evaluating seismic risks promptly.
Disaster management took center stage with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Behçet Öznacar emphasizing the necessity of comprehensive disaster management laws. Yusuf Eker, Head of the Education Branch of the TRNC Civil Defense Organization, outlined the TRNC Disaster Response Plan, emphasizing well-organized responses, proper training, and international aid coordination.
The panel concluded with a unified call for proactive measures, proper building inspections, improved disaster management, and international collaboration to enhance earthquake preparedness and response in Cyprus.
This collaborative effort aligns with several UN Sustainable Development Goals, including Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, Sustainable Cities and Communities, and Partnerships for the Goals. The commitment to building safety, disaster risk reduction, and international cooperation reflects a collective effort toward creating resilient and sustainable communities in the face of seismic challenges.
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