Environment and Urbanization Minister Murat Kurum Visits Hatay, Announces Rebuild Plans for Historic Market
Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change Minister Murat Kurum made important announcements during his visit to Hatay, where he met with local merchants. “If there is no hindrance to the project, we preserve the solid buildings. Even if the area is within a reserve area, we will not demolish everything. If it does not obstruct the project, we won’t demolish it. If our citizens do not want it, we will not proceed with the transformation there,” Kurum stated. He also revealed that the contract for the reconstruction of the Historic Uzun Çarşı (Long Bazaar) will be signed on September 15, and until then, merchants will be relocated.
Minister Kurum, who examined the damage in Hatay’s city center, toured the severely damaged Historic Uzun Çarşı that was affected by an earthquake. He met with shopkeepers and visited the Jewelers’ Bazaar for further inspections. Minister Kurum also received information from project officials on the restoration efforts of the Habib-i Neccar Mosque, a significant symbol of the city that was completely destroyed in the quake.
CONTRACT SIGNING FOR UZUN ÇARŞI ON SEPTEMBER 15
During his visit to Uzun Çarşı, where he interacted with citizens, Kurum announced that the contract for the reconstruction and revitalization of the bazaar will be signed on September 15. He requested merchants to vacate their shops by this date under the coordination of the governorship. “We will empty this place by September 15, 2024, and hold our tender on the same date to start construction works. The governor will assist you with relocation by the 15th. Since some of the old buildings are here, we will demolish them. We aim to complete this area swiftly along with the adjacent side,” he said.
“NO DEMOLITION IF THE PROJECT IS NOT OBSTRUCTED”
During a walk through Hatay streets, Minister Kurum responded to a citizen’s question regarding undamaged buildings in reserve areas. “If there is no hindrance to the project, we preserve the solid buildings. Even if the area is within a reserve area, we will not demolish everything. If it does not obstruct the project, we won’t demolish it. If our citizens do not want it, we will not proceed with the transformation there,” Kurum confirmed.
“HOPEFULLY, WE WILL HAVE TEA TOGETHER HERE ON FEBRUARY 6 NEXT YEAR”
After inspecting the Jewelers’ Bazaar, where 67 businesses will be established, Kurum had a discussion with a project official. “It’s August now, and I want everything completed by the end of December. If we don’t complete it, there will be repercussions. After we initiate the process on September 15, hopefully, we will all have tea together here on February 6. I will even come to your shop and have your coffee,” he said.
Minister Kurum also consoled a quake survivor who embraced him in tears at the Jewelers’ Bazaar.
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