Massive destruction revealed after wildfires in Çanakkale

Wildfires that broke out in two separate locations in Çanakkale have been brought under control following intensive efforts. In the aftermath of the fires, exhausted and desperate residents, along with scorched fields and homes, remain in the villages. Göksel Yalın, whose home and field were damaged in the fire, said, "The village residents extinguished the fire. Firefighting crews from the Bursa and Edremit municipalities arrived, but there was no one from the government."

The fires first started in Sarıcaeli and subsequently in the Bayramiç district. While the fire in Sarıcaeli was brought under control in a short time, 654 people were evacuated from the villages of Saçaklı, Ahmetçeli, Doğancı, Zeytinli, and Pıtıreli in Bayramiç. However, the flames spread to the villages due to the effect of the wind.

In Saçaklı Village, one of the areas most affected by the fire, villagers stated that firefighting aircraft arrived late and that they had to intervene in the fire using their own means.

THE SELFLESS STRUGGLE OF THE VILLAGERS

Ramazan Efe Kaya, who participated in the firefighting efforts in Pıtıreli Village, said, "I have been on my feet since last night. We are striving for the animals and the people. We are not thinking about sleep, hunger, or thirst." Kaya noted that he felt good after the fire was extinguished, but that the state of the trees was saddening.

Gülay Çetinkaya said, "The firefighting aircraft arrived late. As the village residents, we intervened with our own efforts. I carried water by motorcycle. We did not anticipate that the fire would reach here."

GREAT DAMAGE IN THE VILLAGES

The fire caused significant damage in the villages. Olive groves and fields were reduced to ash. Çetinkaya said, "Many fields in our village were damaged. Our olive groves burned down." Ferit Güneri also stated, "The fire came here from Saçaklı Village. Everyone tried to help with their own means."

While cooling efforts continue in the region following the fire, the village residents continue to struggle in solidarity despite the difficulties they have faced.

News Source: 12punto