Turkey’s Earthquake Recovery: A Continual Challenge Two Years On

Two years after the devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, significant recovery challenges remain. Less than a third of destroyed homes have been rebuilt, and around half a million people still reside in temporary shelters. The psychological impact on the affected population continues to be a pressing concern, with high rates of anxiety and depression reported among survivors.

The aftermath of Turkey’s catastrophic earthquakes is still evident two years later, with only a small fraction of destroyed homes rebuilt. Approximately half a million individuals reside in temporary container settlements, and many continue to endure psychological challenges stemming from the disaster. The earthquake, registering magnitudes of 7.5 and 7.8, devastated southeastern Turkey and northern Syria, claiming over 60,000 lives and displacing millions.

Mr. Sabahattin, a barber in Antioch, witnesses the ongoing devastation daily. Once situated in a thriving area, his shop now faces overwhelming destruction, with only a few customers daily. Despite the hardships, he maintains his business to avoid returning to the cramped container he has called home for the past two years.

Many survivors, like Sabahattin, live in small temporary accommodations that feel confining, especially after having enjoyed more spacious homes. The continuing destruction in their environment fosters feelings of despair among residents, who believe that the authorities have neglected their recovery needs, leaving them to struggle in substandard conditions.

There has been some progress in clearing debris and beginning reconstruction, but it has not matched the promises made by the government. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had vowed to provide 319,000 new homes by the year’s end; however, only a fraction of that has been completed thus far, with many still lacking adequate housing.

Displacement has exacerbated the loss of vibrant communities, leading to significant emigration and increased child labor as families struggle to survive. The education of many children has suffered, with rising absenteeism rates reported due to the ongoing challenges faced by families in the earthquake-affected areas.

Psychologists indicate that living in such conditions hampers individuals’ ability to heal, causing lingering trauma. Survivors are often reminded of the disaster, experiencing deep-rooted insecurities in their lives as they grapple with the collapse of their homes and futures, leading to high levels of depression and anxiety in the population.

UNICEF reports alarming statistics regarding mental health in the affected areas, indicating high levels of post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression among survivors. This underscores the urgent need for continued support and resources for these communities as they navigate the hardships of recovery.

The devastating earthquakes that struck Turkey and Syria on February 6, 2023, resulted in significant loss of life and property, leaving survivors grappling with both physical and psychological scars. The recovery process has been slow and inadequate, with many individuals and families still living in temporary shelters two years later. This calamity has not only displaced countless people but has also disrupted social structures and contributed to rising mental health issues, necessitating a comprehensive approach to rebuilding and healing.

In summary, Turkey continues to confront the repercussions of its recent earthquakes, with a vast number of individuals still in temporary housing and enduring mental health challenges. While some progress has been made in clearing debris and beginning the rebuilding process, the government’s failure to uphold promises has left many in dire conditions. The ongoing struggles of the survivors highlight the persistent need for effective recovery strategies and tailored mental health support to restore community wellbeing and stability.

Original Source: english.elpais.com