Post-earthquake response from IMM

Following the 6.2 magnitude earthquake that occurred off the coast of Silivri in Istanbul on April 23, 2025, the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) activated crisis management through the Disaster Coordination Center (AKOM). Working in full cooperation with the relevant state institutions, the IMM took an active role in the field to ensure the safety of citizens and meet their needs.

According to the statement made by the IMM, areas with a shelter capacity of 260 thousand people were established, and 1,500 personnel provided service 24 hours a day. In addition, 429 toilets and mobile toilets were placed at points of need. İSPARK areas were opened for use as temporary shelter and assembly areas.

RAPID RESPONSE AFTER THE EARTHQUAKE

Immediately after the earthquake, a crisis desk was established at AKOM under the coordination of IMM Deputy Mayor Nuri Aslan and Secretary General Prof. Dr. Volkan Demir. While all of the IMM's management and technical teams were directed to the field, residents of the Darülaceze nursing home and students in dormitories were evacuated. Metro lines were inspected and put back into operation, and checks were carried out on infrastructure services.

IMM Secretary General Volkan Demir stated that in addition to the 628 vehicles and 1,000 personnel in the field, 2,000 support personnel were also on duty. Speaking on behalf of the IMM Science Board, Prof. Dr. Tarık Şengül warned citizens to avoid panic and not to enter damaged buildings.

DAMAGE ASSESSMENT AND SECURITY MEASURES

Scans conducted with AFAD, the Fire Department, the Municipal Police, and district municipalities determined that there was no loss of life, but 173 people were injured. It was stated that while 15 people are still being treated in hospitals, they are not in life-threatening condition. A total of 35 buildings were evacuated, and damage assessment studies were carried out on some buildings.

STATUS OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND RAIL SYSTEMS

There were no disruptions on metro, tram, metrobus, or cable car lines. İGDAŞ's early warning system was activated, but no gas cuts were made as critical levels were not exceeded. Independent earthquake valves in the internal installations of some buildings were automatically activated and cut off the gas flow.

The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality announced that it will continue to be in the field with all its units to ensure the safety of citizens and meet their needs following the earthquake.