A devastating fire erupted at the Grand Kartal Hotel in Turkey’s Bolu mountains early Tuesday, claiming the lives of 66 people. The flames spread rapidly, forcing guests to leap from windows in a desperate bid for survival. The incident has shocked the nation and raised concerns about fire safety measures.
Fire Breaks Out in the Early Hours
The fire started around 3:30 a.m. (0030 GMT) on the restaurant floor of the 12-story hotel. According to Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, 51 people sustained injuries, some critically. The hotel, located near popular ski slopes, was hosting 238 guests at the time of the disaster.
Guests Struggle to Escape
Panic ensued as the fire engulfed the building. Witnesses reported seeing guests tying bed sheets together to create makeshift ropes. Some, including women on the top floor, shouted for others to prepare cushions and pillows below as they prepared to jump. The chaotic scene highlighted the lack of adequate fire evacuation measures.
Harrowing Accounts from Survivors
A hotel guest recounted to Ekol TV how his family awoke to smoke-filled corridors and had no choice but to jump from a lower-floor window into the snow. The incident has left survivors traumatized and grappling with the horrifying memories of their escape.
Also Read: Los Angeles Wildfire Damages Set to Cost Record $135 Billion
Challenges Faced by Firefighters
Firefighters arrived approximately 45 minutes after the first emergency call. However, the hotel’s location on a steep slope hindered their access to certain areas. This delay and logistical challenge hampered efforts to control the blaze and rescue those trapped inside.
Efforts to Extinguish the Fire
While the fire was eventually brought under control, cooling operations continued well into the afternoon. Officials are now focusing on understanding how the fire spread so quickly and evaluating the building’s fire safety protocols. The hotel’s design and emergency preparedness are under scrutiny.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the fire. The tragedy coincided with school holidays, a period when many families from Istanbul and Ankara visit the area for skiing. The timing has amplified the emotional impact of the disaster.
National Mourning and Condolences
The incident has plunged Turkey into mourning. Interior Minister Yerlikaya expressed his heartfelt condolences, stating the loss was “impossible to describe.” The tragedy has sparked debates about fire safety regulations in hotels and other public facilities.
Public Reactions and Calls for Action
The disaster has prompted an outpouring of grief and anger from the public. Many are questioning the adequacy of fire safety measures in the hospitality industry. Social media platforms are flooded with calls for stricter regulations and inspections to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Photo Evidence of the Aftermath
Photos shared on social media showed the hotel’s charred remains, offering a stark visual reminder of the devastation. Witness accounts and images have highlighted the sheer scale of the tragedy, leaving a lasting impact on the nation.
Conclusion
As the nation grieves the loss of 66 lives, the focus shifts to accountability and prevention. The tragedy at the Grand Kartal Hotel serves as a somber reminder of the importance of fire safety and preparedness, particularly in high-risk locations like ski resorts.
