Istanbul, June 8 – Three workers sustained injuries today when a building undergoing demolition as part of an urban transformation project in Istanbul’s Küçükçekmece district partially collapsed. The incident took place on Şair Şinasi Street in the Fevzi Çakmak Neighborhood, where the building had been evacuated and demolition work was underway.
Details of the Collapse and Emergency Response
The partial collapse occurred on the third floor of the building during demolition activities for reasons yet to be determined. Upon receiving notification, police, fire, health, and AFAD (Disaster and Emergency Management Authority) teams were immediately dispatched to the scene. Security measures were promptly implemented around the area.
One individual managed to exit the building independently, while two others were rescued by emergency teams with injuries. The injured workers, identified as Muhammet T., Recep T., and Murat T., were transported to a hospital. Their health condition is reported to be good.
AFAD teams confirmed that no other individuals were trapped inside the building, concluding their search and rescue operations in the area.
Official Statement and Investigation
Küçükçekmece Deputy Mayor Gökhan Aygün issued a statement confirming that the partially collapsed building had been declared a risky structure and was undergoing urban transformation. Aygün explained that the ceiling collapsed while four individuals, who had unauthorized access to the building, were attempting to remove materials. He reiterated that the injured were rescued by the teams and taken to the hospital.
Authorities have initiated an investigation into the cause of the collapse. The incident highlights the potential hazards associated with demolition work in urban renewal projects.
Context of Urban Transformation in Istanbul
Istanbul, a metropolis prone to earthquakes, has numerous buildings identified as high-risk structures. Urban transformation projects are critical for enhancing building safety and urban resilience. However, such projects often involve complex demolition and construction phases that require strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent accidents like the one in Küçükçekmece.
The municipality and relevant authorities are expected to review safety procedures at demolition sites to prevent future occurrences and ensure the well-being of workers involved in these essential urban development initiatives.
