26 Sep 2024

SIGNIFICANT COLLABORATION STEPS IN DISASTER MANAGEMENT BETWEEN ISTANBUL GEDIK UNIVERSITY AND KARTAL MUNICIPALITY

A meeting between Istanbul Gedik University and Kartal Municipality’s Directorate of Disaster and Emergency Management highlighted potential collaboration opportunities in disaster management and urban transformation. With the participation of Kartal Municipality’s Directorate of Urban Transformation, the meeting focused on planning concrete steps to make the region more resilient to disasters.

Discussions emphasized leveraging Istanbul Gedik University’s academic expertise and technological infrastructure alongside Kartal Municipality’s local governance experience to minimize disaster risks and enhance public safety. The meeting addressed critical topics such as preparation before crises and effective response strategies during emergencies, especially considering Istanbul’s high earthquake risk. Projects involving the development of smart technologies and early warning systems were discussed as potential solutions for swift and effective disaster response. Implementing these systems in Kartal could significantly reduce regional risks.

Kartal Municipality’s Urban Transformation Directorate provided updates on ongoing earthquake-resistant construction efforts in the district. They expressed the intent to develop more comprehensive urban transformation solutions for new projects with Istanbul Gedik University’s scientific support.

Shared Vision for Collaborative Projects

Both parties agreed to implement joint projects involving scientific research and fieldwork. These initiatives aim to offer innovative solutions in disaster management and safeguard the local population.

Future-Oriented Collaboration

Kartal Municipality’s Disaster and Emergency Management Director highlighted that this partnership could serve as a model not only for Kartal but also for Istanbul as a whole. University representatives emphasized the vital role of collaborations with local authorities in translating academic knowledge into practical, on-ground applications.

The meeting concluded with a roadmap for long-term collaboration to mitigate disaster risks in Kartal. This partnership marks the beginning of a robust alliance between Istanbul Gedik University and Kartal Municipality, aiming to enhance the region’s resilience to disasters through innovative projects and comprehensive urban transformation efforts.