Thousands of Buildings Collapsed in Turkey. Devastation Was Preventable, Experts Say.

The article focuses on the inadequate infrastructure in Turkey that has contributed to widespread destruction following recent earthquakes, specifically the 7.8 and 7.5 magnitude quakes that resulted in significant loss of life and property. Despite past warnings from civil engineers about the country's inability to withstand large earthquakes, many buildings do not meet modern quake-resistant standards, and enforcement of construction codes is often lacking. The article highlights the economic disparities between regions in Turkey, which affect building quality, and emphasizes the need for improved compliance with safety regulations to prevent future tragedies. Experts suggest that learning from past experiences and adopting effective building practices, as seen in other countries like Chile, could mitigate future risks. [Extracted from the article]