Manavgat: Wildfires continue in three locations on fifth day

Journalists in Manavgat are running away as the fire rapidly expands due to the wind. (Photo: AA)

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The forest fires that broke out in Manavgat, Antalya in southern Turkey continue on the fifth day.

Fires started on four locations on July 28, in areas about 30 kilometers away from the Manavgat district center.

A total of seven have been killed in the district as the bodies of two more people were found yesterday (August 1).

Speaking to bianet about the latest situation, Manavgat Mayor Şükrü Sözen said, fires are continuing in three locations, Ahmetler, Sırt Köyü and Beydiğin, and restarted in Gündoğdu.

"The important thing is that the fire continues to spread with the effect of the wind and because the aerial response is not possible after it gets dark," said the mayor.

So far, more than 20 residential areas have been burned, he said. "For now, we are not able to determine how much the total damage is. After the fires are completely extinguished, expert teams will work on the issue."

More than 125 wildfires have occured in 30 provinces of Turkey since July 28. While most of the fires have been contained, the fires in Antalya and Muğla in the country's south continue to intensify.

Disconnect between the authorities

Journalist Ali Orhan, who works for Antalya's local Kanal V outlet, said fires are continuing in the districts of Manavgat, Alanya, Gazipaşa, İbrade, and Akseki.

"Today, a fire erupted in Kemer. It was extinguished with the help of the citizens. The areas where the fire is most severe are Manavgat and Akseki. In Akseki, the historical houses that are called the 'button houses' have burned down," he said.

Photo: AA/File

The journalist pointed out the lack of coordination between municipalities and governors, saying that, "The municipalities work separately. We broadcast for four days and didn't see them acting together. There is a disconnect. There is a split into two and this lack of coordination is a big problem."

The Antalya Metropolitan Municipality and the Manavgat District Municipality are led by the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP).

Yesterday, the minister of forestry blamed the municipalities for not fulfilling their duties, which he said also hinders the ministry's efforts.

The villages of Kalemler and Gebece are the hardest-hit places in Manavgat, Orhan further said, adding that a large number of animals were killed and houses were destroyed.

"There are no roads in most of the forested areas. This makes response from the land more difficult. The teams that work on the land are working in very difficult conditions, the temperatures are very high in fire zones.

"In addition, the wind is always blowing from the opposite direction, which makes the work of the teams even more difficult. Serious work needs to be done immediately, coordination must be established." (RT/VK)