Restoration of damaged foundation works in Hatay to end in 2025
Hatay's foundation authority aims to complete earthquake repairs by 2025, including restorations on Hunkar Masjid and Sarimiye Mosque, to improve earthquake resistance
In a meeting with journalists at the Habib-i Neccar Mosque courtyard, Osman Guneren, acting regional director of foundations, spoke about the organization's activities since the Feb. 6, 2023 earthquakes. Guneren highlighted plans to complete restoration works on damaged foundations by 2025.
Adding to his remarks, Guneren acknowledged the widespread destruction caused by the earthquakes throughout the city. He specifically mentioned the Hunkar Masjid and Sarimiye Mosque, which suffered damage but have thankfully reopened after restoration efforts.
Stating that 71 works under the responsibility of the General Directorate of Foundations were completely destroyed or damaged and became unusable, Guneren said: "We have started the restoration works of all of these works rapidly. The earthquake showed us that the earthquake resistance of our structures, such as registered cultural assets, is not good. One is the issue related to the soils, and the second is the resistance or reaction of these structures against earthquakes. As the General Directorate of Foundations, we have determined all the improvements that need to be made regarding the soils. Subsequently, statistical calculations and modeling have been carried out in order for the structures to stand more statically resistant to earthquakes, and now our buildings have started to rise."
Highlighting the ongoing recovery efforts, Guneren announced plans to complete the restoration of seven to eight earthquake-affected foundation projects that began this year.
Acknowledging the potential for delays due to the severity of damage or necessary structural and groundwork interventions, Guneren reassured the public. "These timelines are standard for such complex restoration projects," he explained. "We are still on track to complete repairs on nearly all remaining foundations by 2025."
Reminding that the Habib-i Neccar Mosque was also damaged in the earthquakes, Guneren stated that the restoration of the building continues under the sponsorship of Konya Metropolitan Municipality and in coordination with the General Directorate of Foundations of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
Guneren added that the restoration of the mosque is expected to be completed in 2025.
Source: Newsroom
