Yıldırım Municipality establishes radio network for disaster communication

The Yıldırım Municipality in Bursa has implemented a specialized radio communication system to ensure uninterrupted connectivity during disasters, such as earthquakes, when mobile networks may fail. The project provides radios to 71 local neighborhood heads (muhtars), municipal and district governorate staff, and volunteer search and rescue teams.

To support the network, relay stations have been installed on the Uludağ and Katırlı mountains. Participants have received communication training from the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) and conduct monthly drills to maintain operational readiness.

Mayor Oktay Yılmaz stated that the municipality is also conducting micro-zoning studies to inform urban planning and soil safety. Additionally, a new requirement has been introduced for new housing developments, mandating one emergency response container for every 50 residential units. The municipality has also added two thermal drones to its inventory to assist in disaster response.