21.11.2025 15:31
The construction of the Onat Tunnel, built by the İzmir Metropolitan Municipality to connect the districts of Buca and Bornova, has caused a crisis. A fight broke out between the municipal police and local residents during the evacuation of a damaged house. The residents expressed that they are waiting for a solution from the municipality and stated that they expect İzmir Metropolitan Mayor Cemil Tugay to visit the neighborhood.
During the evacuation of a damaged house due to the ongoing construction of the Onat Tunnel, which aims to connect two districts in İzmir, a scuffle broke out between the municipal police teams and the locals. Some individuals climbed onto rooftops and threw objects into the street. Officials from the Metropolitan Municipality visited the area and spoke with the residents.
STRONG REACTION TO INTERVENTION WITH A SLEDGEHAMMER
While the construction of the Onat Tunnel, aimed at connecting the Buca and Bornova districts, has caused some demolitions in the Atamer Neighborhood, it has been claimed that many buildings and streets have developed cracks. Today, during the evacuation of a house that was damaged and had a demolition order, a scuffle occurred between the municipal police teams and the locals. A dispute arose when an attempt was made to open the house's door with a sledgehammer, which escalated into a fight.
Upon receiving the notification, police and medical teams were dispatched to the area. Some citizens reacted by climbing onto the roof of the house and throwing objects into the street.
INVITATION TO MAYOR CEMIL TUGAY
After the scuffle, İzmir Metropolitan Municipality Secretary General Zeki Yıldırım came to the area and spoke with the residents. The locals expressed their grievances and demanded that Mayor Cemil Tugay come to the neighborhood; some individuals even called for Mayor Tugay's resignation. Yıldırım stated that they were aware of the situation and that necessary actions would be taken.
Şenay Korkmaz, the Muhtar of Atamer Neighborhood, stated that the buildings were damaged and the ground had deteriorated, expressing that they requested the municipality to compensate for the damages by constructing prefabricated houses. Korkmaz said, "The zoning plan made by the municipality is not legal; many of our objections have been disregarded. We are waiting for a solution."
After the municipal police teams left, the locals also dispersed.