Turkish Presidency Sets Up Earthquake Board

An earthquake board has been formed by the Turkish Presidency.

The board comprises experts who will assess rebuilding efforts in areas hit by the February 6 earthquakes in Turkey.

The board will primarily focus on reconstructing cities and towns on stable ground in the disaster zone with scientific projects.

Civil engineers, urban planners, architects and geology experts will join scientists to exchange ideas on rebuilding. The board is expected to convene for the first time in Istanbul on Friday.

The idea was conceived after Environment, Urban Planning and Climate Change Minister Murat Kurum visited all 11 provinces affected by the quakes and consulted with scientists, mayors and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) representatives.

Kurum said; “Our entire effort is focused on returning our citizens to their homes as soon as possible. We are starting work immediately in areas where we have signed contracts and completed ground surveys.”