On June 13, 2025, a scenario-based disaster risk management workshop was held in the district of Şile, located on the northeastern coast of Istanbul, within the scope of the PARATUS project. The event was hosted by the Şile Municipality and brought together approximately 70 participants, including representatives from various public institutions and local neighborhood administrations.
Unlike other districts of Istanbul situated closer to the North Anatolian Fault, Şile is known for its forested landscape and coastal character, and functions largely as a seasonal holiday destination. While the district itself is unlikely to be directly affected by a major earthquake, its potential strategic role as a post-disaster shelter or evacuation area for other affected parts of the city was at the heart of the workshop discussions.
Participants raised concerns regarding Şile’s existing infrastructure, particularly its capacity to accommodate large, sudden population inflows in the aftermath of a disaster. Issues related to accessibility, basic services, and public safety were highlighted as key vulnerabilities.
The workshop scenario specifically focused on Şile’s peak population periods during the summer months, simulating a regional crisis that would require the district to host evacuees. This exercise emphasized the importance of preparedness not only for areas at the epicenter of seismic activity, but also for those indirectly exposed to cascading impacts. The session demonstrated how peripheral districts like Şile can play a critical role in regional resilience strategies, despite being located outside primary hazard zones.
At the close of the event, the Mayor of Şile presented a commemorative plaque to Prof. Dr. Seda Kundak, coordinator of the PARATUS Istanbul case study, in recognition of her scientific guidance and contributions to the workshop. The plaque reads:
“Dear Prof. Dr. Seda Kundak, we sincerely thank you for your support and scientific leadership in the organisation of the ‘Multiple Scenario Based Disaster Risk Management Workshop’ for the Şile District, held under the PARATUS project and hosted by our municipality. Şile Municipality.”
