Earthquake Survivors in Turkey Face Eviction Threats from Temporary Housing

Earthquake survivors residing in the Cengiz Topel container city in Hatay's Defne district are reportedly being pressured to leave their temporary shelters within a strict 15-day deadline. Residents claim they have been threatened with forced eviction, with authorities allegedly stating, "If you don't leave your container, we will remove you by force with the container. You won't be able to take your belongings either." This ultimatum has caused immense distress among those who have nowhere else to go. One resident, whose spouse is retired and receives a 20,000 lira pension, expressed deep concern about affording rent and living expenses if forced to leave. "If I give 15,000 lira to the real estate agent and 15,000 lira as a deposit to the landlord, what will I eat, what will I drink?" the resident questioned, highlighting the impossible financial burden. Another survivor, Yaşar Kaplan, 66, who lives alone and receives a 4,000 lira disability pension, stated he has no other income or assets and is heavily in debt. He expressed bewilderment about where he is supposed to go, emphasizing that his basic needs, including medication, are barely covered. Kaplan, who has a history of serious health issues including multiple heart surgeries, is struggling to survive on his meager pension. The situation is dire for many in the container city, who feel abandoned and uncertain about their future after losing their homes in the devastating earthquakes.

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If you don't leave your container, we will remove you by force with the container. You won't be able to take your belongings either.