Japanese earthquake expert compares old and new buildings in Turkey

The conference titled “Seismicity of Balıkesir and the Structure-Soil Relationship,” held in Ayvalık, saw high attendance at the Vural Sineması Nejat Uygur Stage. Speaking at the conference, Japanese earthquake expert Yoshinori Moriwaki stated that Turkey and Japan are located in similarly active earthquake zones and issued warnings regarding the steps that must be taken to reduce losses in a potential earthquake.

Moriwaki pointed out that pre-earthquake preparations play a critical role in preventing potential loss of life and property. Emphasizing the importance of structural safety and soil surveys in particular, Moriwaki underscored that Japanese construction standards should be more widely adopted in Turkey.

Moriwaki said, “The building inspection system in Turkey has improved significantly following the major earthquake in 1999, and newly constructed buildings have become more durable compared to older structures. However, there are still points in the system that need improvement.”

Stating that a large portion of the building stock in Turkey consists of unregistered or non-standard buildings, Moriwaki emphasized that while the current earthquake code contains stricter rules than those in Japan, it is essential that these rules be implemented fully in the field. The Japanese expert noted that properly inspected new buildings are more resistant to earthquakes, but that illegal or old structures pose a serious risk.