Spain and Turkey collaborate on investigating sinkholes in Central Anatolia region
In the heart of Turkey, a collaborative project is being developed to tackle the mounting challenges of water scarcity and geological instability in the Konya region. This initiative involves institutions from both Turkey and Spain, working together to ensure the sustainability of agricultural production and water resources.
The project, which focuses on Konya - often referred to as Turkey's "grain silo" - aims to address the effects of droughts and sinkholes, issues that have become increasingly pressing due to climate change. The collaboration includes Zaragoza University in Spain, Nigde University in Turkey, and the Turkish water authority.
One of the key concerns in Konya is the declining water levels in its three main lakes - Meke, Tuz, and Beyshehir. In an effort to address this, authorities are exploring the possibility of transferring water into the Konya closed basin.
To combat the issue of unregistered wells, which have become prevalent in agriculture, the Turkish Agriculture and Forestry Ministry is accelerating efforts to regulate groundwater use. Meanwhile, guide wells are now being drilled across Central Anatolia to calculate the region's total groundwater reserves.
The joint project is also developing a digital system to catalog existing sinkholes and monitor new ones. The goal is to produce a risk map to guide land use and protect local communities. Four major wastewater treatment plants are being constructed to prevent untreated discharges into Tuz Lake.
In addition, plans are underway to restore Meke Lake by channeling 20 million cubic meters of treated water into the basin by 2027. Konya Mayor Uğur Ibrahim Altay stated that while the city center is not currently affected, the Karapınar area has a geological structure prone to sinkholes.
This scientific effort is crucial for one of Turkey's most climate-vulnerable areas. By mapping and monitoring risks associated with water scarcity and geological instability, the project aims to ensure a sustainable future for Konya and its people.
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