Rescue operations continue after widespread flooding in Turkey
Flooding in Istanbul and its neighboring province, Kocaeli, began several days ago after heavy rainfall and is still ongoing.
At least six people have died in the incident so far: five in Istanbul and one in Kocaeli. Search operations to find the missing continue with the participation of rescue and security forces.
Local authorities have reported extensive damage to infrastructure, residential buildings, and commercial units, and have announced that about 10,000 flood-related damage reports have been received.
Turkey’s Ministry of Trade has allocated 80 million liras in emergency financial aid to affected tradespeople and artisans to compensate for part of the damage, and about five thousand affected people in Istanbul are to receive 10,000 liras each in compensation. The Ministry of Family and Social Services has also allocated 200 million liras for the reconstruction and revitalization of affected areas.
Following flight disruptions, 51 flights from Istanbul Airport to other destinations were diverted and 19 flights were canceled.
At the same time, cleanup operations in affected areas and the demolition of unauthorized structures in riverbeds are underway to reduce the risk of future floods, and responsible institutions have emphasized continued damage assessment and emergency services.
The aid delivery and search for missing persons continue, and additional information on final damage figures will be published by the responsible institutions.
