Parking Lots Should Be Used As Disaster Gathering Areas In Türkiye
President of the Turkish Vehicle After Sales Services Federation (TOBFED) Serkan Bakirtas, Evaluating the recent earthquake in Istanbul and the intensity of urbanization, made an important call for open parking lots to be used as disaster assembly areas. In a written statement made by the Federation, it was stated that the earthquake in Istanbul drew attention to the increasing density and unplanned structuring of cities, and that this situation caused serious difficulties in reaching a safe area in case of disaster.
It was emphasized that heavy traffic and unplanned individual movements prevent search and rescue and emergency response teams from reaching the field and that this situation could increase the effects of the disaster. It was stated in the statement that these problems make the need for a solution even more urgent.
The Importance of Open Parking Lots
TOBFED President Bakırtaş stated that hundreds of thousands of square meters of open parking areas throughout Turkey should be evaluated as assembly areas in case of disasters. Bakırtaş said, “These areas do not pose a risk in terms of environmental security, and they also have features that are easily accessible and allow for rapid evacuation.”
Calling on all relevant public authorities, especially AFAD, to define open parking areas as official disaster assembly areas, Bakırtaş continued his words as follows:
- “Governorships, municipalities and relevant local governments should map the locations of these areas and integrate them into digital disaster guidance systems.”
- “These areas should be made available to the public in times of disaster through joint protocols to be made between the public and the owners of open car parks under the coordination of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.”
Bakırtaş said, “As a large sector that covers vehicle after-sales services, we are ready to do whatever is necessary in this regard.” He also said, “As part of local and national solidarity, I invite all parking lot operators to support this call. It is time for a solution. Open parking lots should become safe havens not only for vehicles but also for people.”
Precautions for Other Emergencies
Bakırtaş added that the steps to be taken will not only be limited to earthquakes, but will also ensure that society is organized safely for fires, floods, terrorism and other emergencies.
