Türkiye launches nationwide project to build modern shelters

Türkiye has begun constructing modern shelters across all 81 provinces to provide safe spaces for civilians in the event of war, natural disasters, or nuclear leaks, the government announced.

The initiative comes amid heightened concerns following recent conflicts in the Middle East, Caliber.Az reports, citing Turkish media.

“At the cabinet meeting, officials discussed the lack of shelters in Türkiye and the fact that existing ones do not meet modern standards,” the report noted.

The Ministry of Environment and Urbanisation has already begun implementing the project. The shelters will be designed to safeguard people in the event of war, natural disasters, or industrial accidents.

Officials said the shelters will be durable structures designed for rapid access during crises, enhancing civilian safety across the country.

The project also drew on international examples, highlighting Israel, Japan and Switzerland, which have extensive civil defense infrastructure.

Shelter requirements in Türkiye are not a new phenomenon. Under a regulation introduced in 1987, large buildings are required to include shelters for their occupants. But enforcement has largely been ignored, with many designated areas instead used as parking lots or storage rooms.

By Khagan Isayev