Poses a Danger: Cracks Reach 25 Centimeters, Stones Topple Over

August 9, 2024 BTT

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STONES BREAKWATER ANTALYA — PHOTO: SÖZCÜ

The cracks in the historic Kaleiçi Yacht Harbor breakwater in Antalya, which has hosted many civilizations, continue to grow, posing a significant danger.

The breakwater at Kaleiçi Yacht Harbor, which was built 65 years ago in Antalya, is showing signs of wear over time. The cracks in the breakwater have now reached up to 25 centimeters. In addition to the cracks, stones on the breakwater have toppled over, and the structure has begun to lean towards the pier.

BUILT IN 1960

The breakwater, built in 1960 and restored in 1983, has seen the size of its cracks increase with each passing year. Last year, the gaps measured 22 centimeters, but this year they have grown to 25 centimeters. Along with the widening cracks, large stone blocks on the breakwater have started to fall over.

STONES HAVE TOPPLED

Stones have fallen from the path used by those walking on the breakwater, slipping into the gaps on the sea-facing side, causing concern among walkers. Additionally, it has been observed that the neglected breakwater is tilting towards the harbor and that it has numerous cracks of various sizes.

Izzet Ünlü, President of the Antalya Maritime Platform, who noted that the harbor had won international awards when it was first built, stated:

– “The Yacht Harbor breakwater has been struggling to hold up for 65 years. Wear and tear have become a significant issue over the years. The breakwater has begun to sink towards the yacht harbor pier.

– I know that under an urgent action plan, the governor and metropolitan municipality officials will begin planning and renovating the breakwater. Some stones have fallen, and they need to be replaced. The joints should be refilled, and the front side should be reinforced with stacked stones.

‘IT MUST BE STRENGTHENED IMMEDIATELY’

– The breakwater needs to be strengthened. The gaps are increasing every year. Last year, the opening measured 22 centimeters, and this year it has reached 25 centimeters. Earthquakes and climate changes are exacerbating these openings.

– There is a noticeable tilt towards the pier. We might not notice it during the summer months, but we see it more during storms like those that occurred last year.

– The breakwater must be repaired before the winter months. It has held up for 65 years; hopefully, nothing worse will happen. It needs to be strengthened as soon as possible.”