Minister Yerlikaya: 348 citizens stranded in Çanakkale forest fires rescued

In a post on his social media account, Minister Yerlikaya stated, "348 of our citizens who were stranded in the forest fires that occurred in Çanakkale have been rescued by our Coast Guard Command.

Upon receiving information that there were citizens stranded due to the forest fires that broke out today in the vicinity of Çınarlı village in the central district of Çanakkale, 1 Coast Guard ship, 5 Coast Guard boats, and 1 Coast Guard Diving Team (DEGAK-5) were immediately deployed.

A total of 348 citizens were evacuated to safe areas, with 187 citizens rescued from the sea by the deployed Coast Guard boats and 161 citizens rescued from land by Coast Guard land vehicles.

I congratulate our Coast Guard Command for meticulously carrying out the rescue efforts. May God protect our country, our nation, and all living beings from all kinds of disasters," he said.

TEAMS' STRUGGLE CONTINUES THROUGH THE NIGHT

Intensive ground intervention continues throughout the night against the fire, which started on agricultural land in the Kepez town of Çanakkale and spread to the forest area. 

While the wind increases in intensity from time to time in the fire zone, the teams continue their work tirelessly.

Çanakkale Governor Ömer Toraman stated in a post on his social media account that the fire is being fought with 10 aircraft and 9 helicopters from the air, and 75 water tenders, 35 fire trucks, 10 bulldozers, 92 other vehicles, and 760 personnel from the ground. While 2,090 citizens in risky areas were evacuated by sea and road as a precaution, 77 citizens affected by smoke are continuing their treatment at healthcare facilities.

News Source: İHA