ISTANBUL (AP) — Turkey is gearing up to observe the one-year anniversary of the devastating earthquake that claimed the lives of over 53,000 people. With events and commemorations planned across the country, millions of Turks are expected to mourn the loss of their friends, loved ones, and neighbors.
Described as the 'Disaster of the Century,' the government has organized a series of events to pay tribute to the victims of the earthquake that struck southern Turkey last year. The city of Antakya, the capital of Hatay province in southern Turkey, will hold a moment of silence and homage at 4:17 a.m., precisely the time when the tremor struck.
Hatay, which is located between the Mediterranean Sea and the Syrian border, suffered the most significant impact among the 11 southern provinces affected by the 7.8 magnitude earthquake. When combined with the 6,000 individuals who lost their lives in neighboring Syria, the total death toll reached a staggering number of over 59,000.
In Antakya, a touching tribute will take place as people throw flowers into the Orontes river, which flows through the city. Additionally, a local orchestra will perform a specially composed piece titled 'In the Wake of Those Who Have Left' to remember and honor the earthquake victims. The atmosphere will be filled with a mixture of grief and resilience as the community stands together.
Meanwhile, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will be present in Kahramanmaras, the epicenter of the earthquake, to oversee the ongoing rebuilding efforts and the relocation of thousands of people who are still living in tents and prefabricated containers. He will also participate in handing over completed homes to survivors. Following his visit to Kahramanmaras, President Erdogan will embark on a week-long tour of other cities within the earthquake zone.
Notably, opposition politicians are also visiting the region in significant numbers. Ozgur Ozel, the leader of the Republican People’s Party, will attend the commemorations in Hatay before proceeding to Gaziantep and Kahramanmaras. This show of unity from across the political spectrum demonstrates the nationwide solidarity in recognizing the tragedy and the need for support and assistance for the affected communities.
As Turkey pays tribute to the victims of the catastrophic earthquake, it is a time for reflection, remembrance, and resilience. The events organized across the country aim to bring the nation closer, to honor the lives lost, and to offer hope for a better future. The magnitude of the disaster serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and measures to mitigate the impact of such calamities in the future.
