By Nakiwala Barbra
At least 76 people have died in a devastating fire at the Grand Kartal Hotel, a popular ski resort in Bolu, Turkey.
The fire broke out in the wooden-clad, 12-storey hotel at 03:27 local time (00:27 GMT) during a busy holiday period when 234 guests were staying there. The blaze, which reportedly started in the restaurant area, spread rapidly, forcing some guests to jump from windows to escape.
The tragedy claimed the lives of notable individuals, including 10-year-old swimmer Vedia Nil Apak and her mother, Ferda, as well as several families and hotel staff. Among the victims were writer Nedim Turkmen and his family, and Prof. Atakan Yalcin, dean of Ozyegin University Business School. A total of 51 people were injured, with one remaining in intensive care.
Authorities said it took over 12 hours to extinguish the fire due to freezing weather and the hotel’s remote location, delaying the arrival of fire engines. Survivors described chaos as they attempted to flee the flames, with some using linens to climb out of windows. One ski instructor, Necmi Kepcetutan, said he managed to escape through the ski room and assisted in rescue efforts.
Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the fire. Bolu governor Abdulaziz Aydin said initial reports suggest it began in the restaurant on the fourth floor. The Turkish Union of Engineers and Architects (TMMOB) raised concerns about fire safety regulations, stating that the hotel lacked an automatic sprinkler system required since 2008. Survivors also reported that warning systems and escape routes were ineffective.
Nine people, including the hotel’s owner, have been arrested as part of the investigation. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared a day of national mourning and promised those responsible for any negligence would be held accountable. The Turkish flag will fly at half-mast until sunset on Wednesday.
The Grand Kartal Hotel, situated in the Bolu mountains, is a popular destination for skiers from Istanbul and Ankara. The fire has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a vibrant holiday season, with Turkey and the global community mourning the devastating loss of life.
