The earthquake that hit the southeast region of Turkey has caused severe damage to the area, with over 15 million people living in the affected cities. The aftermath of the disaster has shown how unprepared the country is for such a massive calamity, affecting various sectors, including transportation.
The railway system is one of the primary modes of transportation in Turkey, with trains being used both for passengers and freight. Despite the damage to the railway infrastructure, railway staff worked hard to repair the damages, and one and a half months after the earthquake, significant progress has been made.
As reported by server Rail Turkey, passenger trains have returned to normal, and several train services are now using the railway through the earthquake area. Over 1060 km of the 1275 km of the railway that broke down during the earthquake have been repaired, with all trains now working except for the Firat Express. The railway system also played a significant role in evacuation, especially since most of the roads in the region were blocked by heavy traffic. Trains were organized on new routes upon need, with 158 departures transporting 30k people.
Trains were also used to transport teams and aid material, with 3000+ healthcare and military staff carried by trains. Twenty-seven aid trains were organized, carrying living containers, portable WCs, and aid material. Additionally, some international aid was also transported by trains from the borders. Finally, the railway system provided fuel supply to the region, which experienced fuel shortages from the first day of the earthquake. Trains carried 30k liters of fuel to be used by ambulances and heavy construction machines.
