Landscape design proposal based on inventory and analysis of Pamukkale University campus infrastructure systems as part of potential earthquake preparedness measures

Disasters are multidimensional events that cause not only physical destruction but also social, economic, and environmental crises. In this context, disaster preparedness requires a multidisciplinary process that includes not only response processes but also pre-disaster risk analyses, spatial planning, and infrastructure reassessments. Especially in the face of natural disasters such as earthquakes, which can have sudden and destructive effects, it is of vital importance to determine in advance the areas where the community can gather safely, organize, and meet their basic needs. The major earthquakes that have occurred in recent years around the world and in Turkey have once again highlighted the critical nature of this need. Based on the observations and experiences from the recent earthquakes that occurred in 11 provinces, it is evident that university campuses are among the most important gathering areas where wounds are tended to and first aid is provided. Based on this reality, the main objective of this study is to investigate the facilities and infrastructure systems that Pamukkale University Campus can offer as an assembly area in the event of a possible earthquake in Denizli Province, identify any deficiencies, and bring them together to propose solutions. Within the scope of the study, an inventory of the infrastructure systems of the Pamukkale University campus was conducted, and a gathering area design was developed to address needs such as emergency response, shelter, gathering, food and drink, common needs, areas for collective action in response to the effects of ongoing earthquakes (aftershocks), and cleaning, among others, in the event of a potential earthquake in Denizli province. This study will serve as a foundation not only for Denizli Province and Pamukkale University but also for other university campuses in our country.