The consequences of earthquake happened in southeast of Turkey spreading to 11 provinces is quite severe.

Over 15 million people were living in cities affected from earthquake where 50k+ lost their lives and 100k+ were injured. 200k+ buildings were either collapsed or severely damaged. 350k+ people were evacuated to other cities. Earthquake clearly showed to what extent are our cities, government, public, poticians and NGOs ready for such huge disasters.

The trains were being densely used both for passengers and freight compared to average in Turkey. After earthquake, railway staff worked hard both for reparing damages on infrastructure and meeting the demand for logistics in the region. After one and a half month, here are what have been done on rail:

Passenger trains returned to normal

Several train services are using railway through the earthquake area. 1275 km of railway broke down during earthquake, but most of it (1060 km) were repaired within the first week. As of today, all trains except Firat Express are working.

No loss of lives on rail

Earthquake did not cause any train accident. There was only a couple of overnight services running during that time. Only a DMU and a few wagons fell down at Gaziantep while parking causing no injuries.

Fast solution for temporary housing

Houses of millions become either nonusable or unsecure after earthquake. Passenger wagons had become a fast, comfortable and secure solution. Together with some facilities of TCDD, wagons hosted over 6000 people.

Trains play role in evacuation

Most of the roads on region were blocked by huge traffic of personal cars, trucks and other vehicles. Thus railway proved to be a good alternative for huge centralized organizations. Evacuation trains were organized on new routes upon need, where 30k people travelled with 158 departures.

Teams and aid transported

Though planes led transport of expert teams and trucks were first choice for transportation of aid material, trains do work for both as well. 3000+ healthcare and military staff were carried by trains. 27 aid trains were organized carrying living containers, portable WCs and aid material.

Some of the international aid were also carried by trains from borders.

Railway provided fuel supply

Fuel shortage was seen from first day in region. One of the most effective solution was railway. Trains carry 30k liters of fuel to be used by ambulances and heavy construction machines.

Original of cover photo: Chamber of Geological Engineers ©