Lake Iznik's water levels are dropping despite rainfall, alarming farmers and businesses. Authorities must act to prevent agricultural crisis.
The decline in water levels in Lake Iznik, which directly affects the districts of Iznik and Orhangazi in Bursa, continues. Despite recent rainfall, the ongoing withdrawal of water is causing anxiety among farmers and tradespeople, while the water usage of industrial facilities has become a topic of renewed discussion. Regional representatives have called on authorities for urgent and comprehensive measures, stating that if the current trend continues, agricultural production will be seriously at risk.
The decrease in water levels in Lake Iznik, which directly impacts the local population in the districts of Iznik and Orhangazi, has heightened concerns among residents. The persistence of the lake's withdrawal, despite the recent rainfall, is particularly alarming for farmers and tradespeople.
Kadir Akçaalan, the President of the Iznik Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen, pointed out that the loss of water cannot be solely attributed to drought, emphasizing the water usage of industrial facilities. He expressed that the intense water consumption of some factories around the lake and along the Gemlik line poses a serious risk, stating, 'The withdrawal from the lake cannot be explained solely by drought. The main issue is the excessive water usage of the factories surrounding the lake. None of these factories should be using water from the lake. We fought for this issue years ago, but we did not receive sufficient support. Today, this problem affecting Iznik will similarly impact Orhangazi tomorrow.'
'If the current situation continues, farmers may not find water in two years.'
Akçaalan emphasized that if the current situation persists, agricultural production will suffer a significant blow, stating, 'If this continues, in two years, farmers will not be able to use a drop of water from here. Those who think a solution can be found through drilling are mistaken. This will not be allowed. If no measures are taken, first the farmers, then the tradespeople and all citizens will experience this hardship.'
Similar warnings have come from neighborhood muhtars. Ersin Körpe, the Muhtar of Çakırca Neighborhood, stated that the withdrawal from the lake is of vital importance for agriculture, noting that drought has become a global issue. Körpe said, 'Like many places in the world, our region is experiencing drought. However, the withdrawal happening in Lake Iznik has now reached a visibly alarming point. We are people who earn our living through agriculture. If the lake dries up, agriculture will end. For this reason, we are fighting for the lake to return to its former level.'
Regional representatives emphasized that farmers, muhtars, and relevant institutions in Iznik and Orhangazi must act in a coordinated manner, while calling on authorities for urgent measures.
It was stated that a comprehensive plan should be prepared regarding industrial water usage, agricultural irrigation methods, and alternative water sources to protect the lake. Experts and regional representatives warn that if the decline in water levels continues, both agricultural production and the regional economy could face serious risks.
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
