Maritime traffic halted briefly in Turkey’s Dardanelles Strait
ANKARA: Maritime traffic halted briefly in Turkey’s Dardanelles Strait due to a forest fire endangering Canakkale province, as announced by the Ministry of Transport. Swift action by planes and helicopters contained the flames, allowing the Turkish Coast Guard to reopen southbound traffic.
Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Ibrahim Yumakli emphasized efforts to safeguard city centers, noting winds diverting the fire from Canakkale’s heart. Evacuations affected seven villages and a university campus.
Over 420 firefighters, supported by ten water bombers, battle the blaze. The fire’s approach towards urban areas is captured in dramatic images, while a freeway closure compounds disruptions. The incident highlights ongoing modernization of Turkey’s firefighting services after a devastating 2021 fire season.
