Post by : Saif
Al-Najjar
In central Turkey, an alarming environmental issue is emerging as hundreds of sinkholes appear across farmlands, primarily due to decreasing rainfall and dwindling groundwater levels. These sinkholes threaten key agricultural crops such as maize, wheat, and sugar beet, raising concerns about the stability and sustainability of the affected land.
Particularly in the Karapinar district of Konya province, some fields are witnessing over ten sinkholes each. In hilly areas, large, ancient sinkholes that once contained water are now dry. According to geologists monitoring the trend, this situation is worsening and reflects broader issues linked to climate change.
Fetullah Arik, a geology professor from Konya Technical University, indicated that the formation rate of sinkholes has surged in recent years. He stated, "The primary cause is climate change and extended drought, impacting global water resources since the early 2000s. Groundwater levels are currently declining by 4 to 5 meters per year, compared to only half a meter annually two decades ago."
The acceleration in groundwater depletion is largely attributed to the rise in unlicensed wells, which now outnumber the licensed ones significantly. Within the Konya basin, a crucial agricultural area, there are around 120,000 unlicensed wells compared to just 40,000 that are officially recognized.
While there have been no reported fatalities, the unpredictable emergence of sinkholes poses a considerable hazard to infrastructure and safety. Surveys in Karapinar have flagged additional areas at risk, yet experts cannot accurately forecast when new sinkholes may occur.
Without prompt action to manage groundwater extraction and mitigate climate change effects, the region is facing the likelihood of more sinkholes, jeopardizing land, communities, and overall regional stability. Experts stress that coordinated efforts are vital to avert further environmental damage and ensure the long-term health of central Turkey’s landscapes.
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