Türkiye has been hit by two quakes with 7.7 and 7.6 magnitude, respectively. Since there were multiple massive earthquakes and they shook a large area, it was difficult for Turkish government to handle rescue operations in the first day. While it called for international help, Turkish people also took roads for help. While victims currently have more stuff than they need, they desperately wait for good news for their relatives under rubbles.
Straturka has asked people in earthquake-affected areas about government’s action. People admit that aid reached some places late but they are generally satisfied with government’s efforts. A person said it was not possible to help all victims and distribute aid in such a short time. Another one said there is turmoil due to the scale of damage.
On the other hand, opposition parties are blamed for exploiting the situation for their political ends. Two pro-opposition journalists were forced to leave the region by locals. Opposition leader Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu claimed that aid convoys were not allowed to enter Hatay province but his party’s Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu said in his twitter account that civilian cars create obstacle for entry of rescue teams. Moreveor, pro-PKK party’s supporters were witnessed to be sharing only news about Kurdish-populated cities.
People call opposition not to politicize earthquake circumstances and act rationally.
