Oğuz: “We will extend cooling down efforts”

Minister of Agriculture and Natural Resources Dursun Oğuz, who spoke to BRT, issued statements on measures to be taken following the fire and the work to be carried out in the fire-affected areas. Stating that technical work on cooling efforts was continuing, Oğuz gave reassurance that teams were working in the fire-stricken areas 24/7. “Our priority is to take precautions in a certain time frame and complete work without any mistakes,” Oğuz said adding that any kind of negligence can lead to new devastating disasters, therefore precautionary measures are being taken and cool-down efforts are continuing, Minister Oğuz said. He also referred to the risk of live fires being left unattended and said that teams were working around the clock to prevent any further disasters. Stating that industrial machines were continuing efforts in the fire zone areas, Oğuz said that although there is a steep region on the west side from the South to the North of the island it was of utmost importance for a corridor to be opened. Efforts similar to this have been finalized in the East, he said adding that controls and inspections are still ongoing with teams in these areas. Minister of Agriculture and Natural Resources Dursun Oğuz also referred to the rehabilitation of the fire zone areas and said that technical experts and if need be support from universities will carry out efforts on planned vegetation to increase green space. Stating that a report will be prepared on what steps should be taken in the case of a fire breaking out, Oğuz said that the government with its means available was doing all it could on the issue. Minister Oğuz also emphasized the need to increase environmental awareness in society.