President of the Presidential Earthquake Committee, Prof. Dr. Cavit Atalar, has issued a stark warning about the dangers of building on riverbeds and constructing multi-story buildings on weak soil, emphasizing the significant risks involved.

Speaking on the seismic threats facing Cyprus, Atalar highlighted that the region has a history of major earthquakes and remains at risk due to active tectonic movements.

He stressed the necessity of conscious urban planning and strict oversight in construction to mitigate potential disasters.

Atalar underlined that much of Cyprus is composed of expansive clay, which swells when wet and shrinks when dry, posing additional challenges for construction.

To ensure modern and safe urban development, he called for micro-zoning studies to assess land suitability before building.

He also pointed out the need to strengthen building inspection systems in Northern Cyprus, noting that while municipalities issue construction permits, many lack adequate inspection mechanisms.

He urged municipalities to form a joint supervisory body to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Existing buildings should also be inspected, Atalar stressed, adding that urban planning must consider not only seismic activity but also factors such as topography, climate conditions, groundwater levels, and the quality of building materials.

Reiterating his warning, Atalar stated, “Earthquakes don’t kill, buildings do.”

He called for urgent action to implement thorough land analyses and responsible urban planning to safeguard communities.