Türkiye to Deliver 455K Post-Quake Homes in Record Reconstruction
Türkiye Nears Completion of Massive Post-Quake Reconstruction Effort
Türkiye is set to complete one of the largest post-disaster reconstruction programs in its history following the Feb. 6, 2023 earthquakes, with 455,000 homes and workplaces expected to be delivered to beneficiaries by the end of this year.
The Scale of the Disaster
The twin earthquakes, measuring 7.7 and 7.6, struck 11 southern cities, directly affecting nearly 14 million people. In the immediate aftermath, authorities established temporary housing, including 645,000 tents in 350 tent cities for 2.5 million people, and over 1.18 million accommodated in public facilities such as student dormitories.
"This reconstruction effort is not just about building houses; it is about rebuilding lives, communities, and restoring hope for millions of our citizens affected by this unprecedented tragedy."
Immediate Relief and Temporary Housing
Additionally, 220,000 containers were installed in 428 container cities, providing a comprehensive suite of services for around 707,000 people. These container cities offered:
- Housing and shelter
- Regular food supply and distribution
- Healthcare facilities and mobile clinics
- Education centers for displaced students
- Psychosocial support and social services
Damage assessments covered a monumental 2.38 million buildings and over 6.6 million housing units, forming the basis for the reconstruction plan.
Unprecedented Construction Speed and Coordination
Under the coordination of the Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change Ministry, construction across 3,481 sites progressed at a remarkable pace. Key milestones of the reconstruction include:
- Rapid Mobilization: The first foundations were laid just 15 days after the disaster.
- Record-Breaking Pace: Construction progressed at an average of 23 units per hour (approximately 550 per day).
- Early Delivery: The first village homes were delivered to beneficiaries within 45 days.
Progress and Handover to Date
To date, keys have been handed over for more than 350,000 housing units, with primary handovers concentrated in the most affected provinces:
- Hatay
- Malatya
- Kahramanmaraş
Important: The completion of all 455,000 units is a critical target. Beneficiaries must ensure they have completed all necessary paperwork with the relevant authorities to receive their new homes and workplaces on schedule.
The massive reconstruction effort stands as a testament to national mobilization, aiming to deliver permanent solutions and stability to the earthquake region by the end of the current year.