The screening of the Mağusa Baykal Tunnel documentary will take place on Saturday, August 14, at 20:30 at the Presidential White Hall. The organization of the documentary is primarily sponsored by the Municipality of Gazimağusa.
This documentary explores the history and architectural features of the Baykal Tunnel, as well as its construction and restoration processes, reflecting the human values attached to this structure. It includes anecdotes from eyewitnesses of the era during interviews. In this regard, the Mayor Dr. Süleyman Uluçay, ARUCAD University Rector Asım Vehbi, and many others share their memories related to the tunnel.
The project is produced and directed by Aytekin İşman, with Mustafa Öztunç as the executive producer. The cinematography is done by İsmail Kurtuldu, interviews are conducted by Erdal Hoş, and editing is handled by Burhan Akyüz. Yusuf Uzun was responsible for camera work. Additionally, the project team includes Tülen Saner, Mehmet Çağlar, Behçet Öznaçar, İbrahim Dalkılıç, and Başak Eser.
The Baykal Tunnel is a structure completed in 1967 and built in secrecy. It was realized following the suggestion of Dr. Burhan Nalbantoğlu under the guidance of architect Osman Saner. The tunnel, approximately 65 meters long and 5 meters deep, serves as a security and evacuation line, connecting Baykal neighborhood to the outer ditch of the walls.
The most significant historical moment of the tunnel occurred on July 20, 1974, when over a thousand Turkish Cypriots, including women, children, and the elderly, passed through the tunnel to reach safe areas. Thus, the Baykal Tunnel has become a symbol of the existence struggle and social solidarity of the people of Mağusa.
This documentary is a project initiated by the Municipality of Gazimağusa, supported by Sakarya University, ARUCAD University, and Arkın Palm Beach Hotel. Attendance at the screening is anticipated, and a strong interest from the local community is expected.
Source: www.yeniduzen.com
