AFAD Volunteer Kaan Mehrekula Takes Part in Karaman Earthquake Drill after 2023 Quake

AFAD organized an extensive earthquake and disaster drill in Karaman, simulating search‑and‑rescue, fire response and operations against chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear threats. The exercise involved police, gendarmerie, health services, UMKE, fire brigades, the Red Crescent, municipal authorities and other agencies, with 299 personnel and 71 vehicles deployed.

Volunteer Kaan Mehrekula, who lost around 40 relatives in the 6 February 2023 Hatay earthquake, participated in the drill. He said the exercise brought back the pain of that day and emphasized that such trainings are crucial to avoid future tragedies. He urged more people to join AFAD’s volunteer network, noting that preparedness can save lives across Turkey.