sure, here is the content you requested:
Like Sabahattin, around 500,000 people in Turkey still live in temporary shelters, prefabricated steel houses, or even tents. “We had grown used to a 150-square-meter apartment, and now we live in just 21 square meters. it feels like we’re imprisoned — it’s not a place for a family of five,” he says.
Source: The lingering scars of Turkey’s devastating earthquake, two years on
The Lingering Impact of Turkey’s Earthquake: Life in Temporary Shelters Two Years Later
Table of Contents
Two years after Turkey was struck by a devastating earthquake, the country is still grappling with the aftermath. Over 500,000 individuals continue to reside in temporary shelters, prefabricated steel houses, or even tents. These living conditions highlight the ongoing struggle for those affected, as they cope with the emotional and physical challenges of displacement.
Interview with Dr. Ayse Kaya, Specialist in Disaster management and Humanitarian response
We sat down with dr. Ayse Kaya, a renowned specialist in disaster management and humanitarian response, to discuss the current living conditions of those affected by Turkey’s earthquake and the broader implications of this ongoing crisis.
Living Conditions in Temporary Shelters
Senior Editor, World-Today-News.com: dr. Kaya, can you give us an overview of the living conditions in these temporary shelters?
Dr. Ayse Kaya: Certainly. The temporary shelters, which include prefabricated steel houses and tents, offer minimal living space. As a notable example, families who were used to living in 150-square-meter apartments now find themselves in just 21 square meters. This drastic reduction in living space can feel like imprisonment, notably for families of five. The psychological impact of such confined spaces cannot be understated.
The Psychological Impact
Senior Editor, World-Today-News.com: How do these living conditions affect the mental health of those living in these shelters?
Dr. Ayse Kaya: The psychological impact is significant. The transition from a pleasant home to a cramped and temporary shelter can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. Children,in particular,struggle with the lack of stability and space,which can affect their emotional and cognitive development. Providing mental health support is crucial in these circumstances.
Long-term Solutions
Senior Editor, World-Today-News.com: What kind of long-term solutions are needed to address this issue?
Dr. Ayse Kaya: Long-term solutions involve a combination of permanent housing construction and thorough support systems. Governments and international organizations need to work together to ensure that affected families have access to adequate housing, healthcare, and education. Additionally, community-based support programs can help rebuild social networks and provide emotional support.
Challenges in Recovery
Senior Editor, World-Today-News.com: What are some of the main challenges in the recovery process?
Dr.Ayse Kaya: One of the primary challenges is the coordination between different stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international aid groups. Ensuring that resources are effectively distributed and that there is no duplication of efforts is crucial. Another challenge is the financial burden of reconstruction, which can be overwhelming for both the government and affected families.
Conclusion
Dr.Kaya’s insights highlight the complex and multifaceted nature of the ongoing crisis in Turkey. Two years after the devastating earthquake, the country continues to face significant challenges in providing adequate living conditions and mental health support for those affected. As the recovery process moves forward, it is essential to prioritize long-term solutions and coordinate efforts among various stakeholders to ensure a sustainable and effective response.
