Demolition begins on buildings surrounding collapsed Turkish apartment block

Seven months after a devastating apartment block collapse in Kocaeli, Turkey, that claimed four lives, demolition work has commenced on surrounding structures deemed risky. The Arslan Apartment building crumbled in October 2025, tragically killing Emine and Levent Bilir and their two children, while their eldest daughter survived with injuries.

Following the incident, 25 buildings in the Gebze and Darıca districts were sealed off due to damage. Now, the process of urban renewal is underway, starting with the demolition of the first of 22 buildings adjacent to the collapsed structure. Excavators are tearing down the buildings, with water tankers used to control dust and debris being hauled away by trucks. Local municipality teams have secured the demolition site.

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The demolition of the first building has been carried out. Demolitions of the others will continue in the coming days.

Gebze Mayor Zinnur Büyükgöz stated that the demolition of the remaining 21 buildings will continue in the coming days. "The demolition of the first building has been carried out. Demolitions of the others will continue in the coming days," he said, adding that residents are currently removing doors and windows before the concrete structures are brought down. He confirmed that agreements have been reached for all buildings, paving the way for reconstruction.

The renewal project involves rebuilding all 22 structures, which will result in 164 new residential units. Mayor Büyükgöz explained that while existing buildings were limited to three stories, the new constructions will be allowed to reach six stories, utilizing previously unused zoning rights. This transformation aims to revitalize the area and provide modern housing for residents.

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We will have a total of 164 independent units produced. 164 independent units will be realized in 22 buildings.