Turkey is facing some of its worst wildfires in recent years. As it is reported by authorities and local sources, more than 130 wildfires have been reported across 30 Turkish provinces since 28 July. The most affected areas include the Mediterranean and Aegean Sea coasts, several in resort areas around Antalya, Mugla, and Marmaris.
KESK sent a delegation to the district of Manavgat in Antalya. The delegation, which is composed of executive committee members and representatives our KESK affiliates, visited the fire department and listened to the fire brigades. During this meeting, KESK representatives aimed to learn more about their working conditions and current situation of the forest fires. Then, the delegation had a meeting with
other relevant colleagues and authorities. The aim of the second meeting is to exchange views on how to improve the efficiency of the firefighting.
On the basis of observations, KESK Women’s Secretary Ms Done Gevher Koyun says “it seems that ministries are not willing to involve municipalities in the firefighting activities. Consequently, the municipalities take their own initiatives. Local people need for more solidarity. Authorities should not leave these people alone. KESK will do its best to increase solidarity. KESK affiliates will be in coordination to organise solidarity actions.”
KESK calls on authorities to allocate required budget to the areas suffered from forest fires.
