Evaluation of Disaster and Emergency Assembly Areas in Fatih District (Istanbul) in Terms of Security and Functionality

Authors : Harun Reşit Bağcı, Nur Seda Çağırır
Pages : 809-828
Doi:10.35341/afet.1676586
View : 343 | Download : 403
Publication Date : 2025-11-30
Article Type : Research Paper
Abstract :Disasters occurring in populous and socioeconomically significant cities such as Istanbul can have national and global impacts. Therefore, disaster management in these areas must be well-designed and effectively implemented. Proper positioning and preparedness of disaster and emergency assembly areas an essential component of disaster management are crucial for ensuring the safety and meeting the needs of people during potential disasters. This study aims to evaluate the assembly areas in Istanbul’s Fatih District in terms of secondary hazards (energy infrastructure, soil liquefaction, and damaged structures) that may arise during disaster scenarios. Hazardous structures and elements, as well as areas at risk of soil liquefaction within the study area, were identified using Remote Sensing (RS), secondary data sources, and field studies. Subsequently, using GIS, the assembly areas were classified into four groups based on their proximity to these hazards. In Fatih District, 185 assembly areas were identified, unevenly distributed across neighborhoods. Among them, 49 are located within the impact zone of structures that may pose risks during earthquakes, 20 are situated near hazardous elements, and 32 are located in areas prone to soil liquefaction. Additionally, 12 neighborhoods lack any designated assembly areas, while some existing areas are situated near or within Istanbul’s iconic tourist sites. The findings are expected to contribute to the disaster management mechanisms of Fatih District and raise disaster awareness. Addressing the identified issues is of critical importance for preventing potential complications during disaster situations.
Keywords : Disaster, Disaster and Emergency Assembly Area, Disaster Management, Fatih

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