Deadly rock fall forces closure of southeastern Turkish castle

Access to Hasankeyf’s iconic castle has been blocked off after one person was killed Tuesday night because of a falling rock, according to Batman’s acting governor.

“We’ve prohibited any access to Hasankeyf Castle as of now,” said Yasemin Çetinkaya, the acting governor of the southeastern province.

The incident was not related to excavations or road construction work but was a natural occurrence due to the split in rocks over time, according to Professor Dr. Abduselam Uluçam, chairman of Hasankeyf Excavation and rector of Batman University.

Noting that the top of the castle also poses a great danger for visitors, Uluçam said, “Small rocks seen from the opposite side also produce a risk.”

“We’re happy that the incident happened on a weekday. On weekends masses of people come here. We had commenced a procedure to control the castle’s entrance and exit. However, after experiencing such an incident, we agreed that a radical solution should be imposed,” Uluçam said. “This incident illustrates that people should not wander around here as it creates danger for their safety. The ministry should place limitations on access to this place immediately.”

 “An excursion route project including Hasankeyf Castle should be designed and a comfortable atmosphere should be facilitated for people who plan to visit the area,” he said.