Turkey's heatwave spurs tree-planting calls and car AC maintenance queues

Rising summer temperatures across Turkey have led to long queues at automotive service centers as drivers seek air‑conditioner maintenance. In Diyarbakır, technician Baver Mafrak told customers, “Yaz ayları geldi vatandaşlar kuyruğa girdi. İnanılmaz bir yoğunluk var,” emphasizing that a functional AC is essential for comfort and health in the intense heat.

At the same time, experts highlight that urban trees can significantly mitigate the “urban heat island” effect. Studies cited in a local commentary note that a mature tree can provide cooling comparable to a 10‑room air‑conditioner for up to 20 hours a day, and that tree‑lined streets can be 3‑7 °C cooler than adjacent concrete avenues. Authorities and planners are urged to prioritize planting to protect public health during heatwaves.

Both stories underscore the dual strategy needed in Turkish cities: immediate vehicle AC upkeep to ensure safe travel, and longer‑term greening initiatives to lower ambient temperatures and reduce heat‑related health risks.