Former President of the Cyprus Turkish Engineers and Architects Chamber (KTMMO), Tunç Adanır, addressed the significant challenges facing the construction industry in a recent interview on the “Stones Are Falling” program on KIBRIS TV, hosted by Hasan Hastürer. He pointed out the widespread lack of control over construction activities and the resulting problems, particularly focusing on illegal constructions and the gaps in enforcement by municipalities.

"The Main Responsibility Lies with the Municipalities"

Adanır criticized the oversight of construction activities, stating that many projects begin without proper permits and that municipalities fail to enforce regulations even for those that do secure permits. “The issue is that construction should start only after obtaining a permit, but this gap is very large in most municipalities,” Adanır explained, emphasizing that the problem is pervasive across the country.

Concerns Over Fire Safety and Lack of Legislation

He highlighted the inadequacy of fire safety regulations, particularly for high-rise buildings. Adanır pointed out that 20-22-story buildings have been constructed, which exceed the capacities of the existing fire safety infrastructure. Despite the preparation of fire regulations in 2018, they remain unenforced, leaving high-rise buildings potentially at risk. He stressed the need for urgent legislative action to address these gaps.

Challenges in the Legalization Process and Earthquake Preparedness

Adanır also underscored the importance of being prepared for earthquakes, given the country's position in an earthquake-prone region. He lamented that the country is not adequately updated in terms of social and legislative measures to address these risks. Despite ongoing efforts by professional organizations like KTMMO to propose legislative improvements, he noted that there are “major deficiencies in taking professional organizations seriously” during the legislative process, and a lack of follow-through even when laws are passed.

"Illegal Construction is a Major Problem"

Adanır described the prevalence of illegal construction, revealing that many projects begin years after obtaining initial permits due to the lack of sanctions. Although municipalities have recently introduced additional fees for delays exceeding a year, the core issue remains that construction should only start post-permit, a rule that is often ignored. He pointed out that while municipalities have the authority to oversee construction activities, this authority is not always effectively implemented, leaving room for non-compliance.

Municipalities Slow to Enforce Inspection Obligations

Adanır noted that amendments made to the Municipalities Law in 2023, which require municipalities to inspect buildings, were a step forward. However, many municipalities have not yet implemented these changes. He explained that, although this legislative update grants municipalities the authority to conduct inspections, including the involvement of KTMMO members, there are still seven municipalities with the authority to issue licenses, while others remain under the purview of district governorships, complicating enforcement.

Ongoing Struggles for Regulation

Reflecting on past experiences, Adanır recalled the construction surge after the 1990s and during the Annan Plan period in 2003-2004, when construction activities increased rapidly without sufficient regulatory oversight. He stressed that although projects might be prepared in line with technical standards, the real issue lies in whether they are executed according to these standards in practice, particularly regarding material quality and construction techniques. This regulatory oversight remains a challenge.

Adanır concluded by emphasizing the importance of strict enforcement of building standards and regulations to ensure safe and compliant construction practices, especially given the country’s vulnerabilities and past challenges with infrastructure management.

Source: Kıbrıs Gazetesi