Structural damage forces Türkiye to demolish Grand Kartal Hotel after deadly fire

Turkish authorities have decided to demolish the Grand Kartal Hotel in the ski resort of Kartalkaya, Bolu Province, where a tragic fire claimed 79 lives.

The decision was reported by Turkish media, citing the Ministry of Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change, per Caliber.Az.

According to the ministry, the demolition decision followed a detailed structural assessment of the building. Experts determined that the hotel’s main load-bearing columns were severely damaged, rendering the structure unsafe and unfit for use. Plans are underway to repurpose the site for a new purpose, though the specifics have not yet been disclosed. The timeline for the demolition will be announced in the coming days.

The fire, which occurred on the night of January 21, broke out in the restaurant area of the 12-story wooden hotel. The flames rapidly spread throughout the structure. According to Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, emergency services arrived at the scene within 40-45 minutes, but the fire proved difficult to contain.

Of the 238 guests staying at the hotel that night, 79 lost their lives and 51 sustained injuries. Some individuals attempted to escape by jumping out of windows in desperation. The disaster left a profound impact across the nation.

In response to the tragedy, Türkiye declared 22 January a national day of mourning, honouring the victims of this devastating event.

By Tamilla Hasanova