A forest fire in the Turkish province of Canakkale has forced the closure of the Dardanelles, one of the world’s narrowest straits. The fire, which broke out on Tuesday, has injured dozens of people and forced the evacuation of more than 1,250 people from nine villages, Turanews.kz reports.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said that 2.7 thousand emergency workers, eight planes and 26 helicopters are involved in the extinguishing efforts. He added that the Dardanelles will remain closed to maritime traffic until the fire is brought under control.
Health Minister Fahrettin Koca said that 83 people have been injured in the fire, including 48 who were taken to hospital. He said that the fire has damaged 1,500 hectares of land, of which 800 hectares are forested.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumaklı said that the fire was caused by human activity. He urged local residents not to burn garbage on their own.
The Dardanelles is a strategically important waterway that connects the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara. It is also a popular tourist destination. The closure of the strait is likely to have a significant impact on shipping and tourism in the region.
