Turkey's Vanishing Ground: Farmers Face Sinking Land

Fertile Farmlands Turned Unstable

Turkey's central region, once renowned for its fertile farmlands, is now a hotspot for sinkholes. The stable ground is giving way, creating large holes that swallow up fields. This phenomenon is driven by decreased rainfall and falling groundwater levels, exacerbated by climate change. The number of sinkholes is escalating rapidly, with nearly 700 identified in the Konya basin alone.

Farmers' Dilemma

In response to drought, farmers are digging more wells, many of which are illegal. This practice worsens the problem, causing groundwater levels to drop at an alarming rate. Historically, the groundwater level decreased by half a meter per year. Now, it's plummeting by 4 to 5 meters annually, posing a significant threat to Turkey's farming industry.

Unpredictable and Dangerous

Sinkholes appear suddenly, putting lives at risk. One farmer, Mustafa Sik, witnessed two sinkholes open up in his fields. He described hearing a loud, scary rumble when the second one formed. Geologists have identified more vulnerable areas in his land, but the timing of potential collapses remains uncertain.

Critical Situation

Farmers are increasingly anxious about the safety of their land. The situation is critical, and urgent government action is needed to protect both the farmers and the land.