Bozkurt marks fifth anniversary of devastating flood and reconstruction

Five years after the devastating flood in the Bozkurt district of Kastamonu, Turkey, local officials and survivors reflect on the disaster and the subsequent reconstruction efforts. The flood, caused by the overflowing of the Ezine Çayı on August 11, 2021, resulted in 65 deaths and 7 missing persons, while causing extensive damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure.

Minister of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change Murat Kurum highlighted the recovery process, noting that the Housing Development Administration of Turkey (TOKİ) completed the construction of 663 houses and 128 shops within 1.5 years. The reconstruction included new bridges, a hospital, schools, and renovated green spaces.

While local business owners expressed confidence in the state-led rebuilding efforts and the improved urban infrastructure, survivors continue to grapple with the emotional trauma of the event. One survivor recounted an 8.5-hour struggle for survival during the flood, noting that despite the physical and social rebuilding of the town, the loss of friends and the memory of the disaster remain vivid.