Speaking directly to citizens in Kahramanmaras, Hatay, Malatya, Adiyaman, Gaziantep, Elazig, Osmaniye, Sanliurfa, Kilis, and Adana, Erdogan expressed heartfelt gratitude for their resilience and unwavering support following the devastating earthquakes that struck on February 6. He praised the patience, fortitude, and sacrifices of those who tirelessly worked to rebuild their communities.
With solemn acknowledgment, Erdogan remembered the 53,000 lives lost in the earthquakes. He offered prayers for their souls and solace for their grieving families.
The President extended his gratitude to public personnel who remained in the affected regions, coordinating aid and reconstruction efforts. Their tireless work contributed to one of the world's most successful recovery operations, reaching 2 million people with a budget of TL 115 billion ($3.56 billion).
Erdogan emphasized the government's determination to fulfill its promises. Notably, 46,000 houses and village homes were completed last month. Through a lottery system, another 30,723 citizens will soon receive keys to their new homes.
Looking ahead, the government aims to provide permanent housing for earthquake victims. Efforts are underway to bolster the resilience of earthquake-prone cities and areas facing similar threats.
In a bold move, Erdogan announced plans to deliver 80,000 houses per month from the Disaster Center, with a target of reaching 200,000 by the end of the decade. The ultimate goal is to provide approximately 390,000 houses, including 11,500 heavy structures and 40,500 commercial premises, to all 442,000 rightful owners without causing undue hardship. (ILKHA)