Erzin stood out as the Turkish city that registered the least damage and no loss of life in Hatay, one of the hardest hit regions by the recent earthquake. Observers noted that no building in Erzin collapsed, while a number of homes sustained only minor damage. This outcome contrasted sharply with surrounding areas where destruction was widespread and fatalities were more common, underscoring a striking difference in impact and resilience within the same seismic corridor.
According to Erzin’s mayor, Ökkeş Elmasoğlu, the city’s relative safety and preservation of life were linked to a firm policy against illegal construction. He explained that buildings violating established standards were the root of many structural failures elsewhere, and pushing back against unauthorized construction played a crucial role in reducing risk, even in an event of such magnitude. The mayor emphasized that while it is nearly impossible to eradicate illegal building completely, it is possible to limit its scope and consequences significantly.
Elmasoğlu recalled taking a clear stance on the issue, stating that there were no concessions on building rules. His approach, he noted, sometimes sparked confrontations with various groups and individuals who favored shortcuts, but he remained steadfast. He described the experience as challenging yet necessary, and he made it clear that the city prioritized safety over convenience, even if it meant engaging in difficult conversations with residents and officials alike.
Through this uncompromising position, Erzin reportedly avoided the kind of demolition scenarios that plagued other towns in the region. The mayor shared that the city’s discipline and strict enforcement of construction norms helped ensure that structures met required standards before and during the earthquake, allowing the community to endure the disaster with far less devastation. He also highlighted that maintaining open channels with residents remained essential, so people understood and accepted the rationale behind strict enforcement and continuous inspections.
Elmasoğlu urged a broader shift in mindset across the country. He argued that a change in mentality about construction was necessary for long-term safety and resilience. The call was for more precise inspection processes, stronger oversight mechanisms, and decisive actions when buildings did not comply with safety norms. The aim, he said, is to prevent unsafe practices from taking root and to establish a culture where safety and compliance are non-negotiable, not merely aspirational goals.
In related news, authorities reiterated a firm stance on accountability during the earthquake response. Reports indicated ongoing efforts to deter looting and to ensure that law enforcement and emergency services could focus on rapid stabilization and relief. The emphasis remained on safeguarding communities, upholding the rule of law, and reinforcing the trust that residents place in their local leaders and responders during such crises.