City Nightmare: Murky Waters and Mysterious Voices
The increase in sinkholes in Konya’s Karapınar district and neighboring areas has become a growing concern. Recent measurements conducted by AFAD and Konya Technical University Sinkhole Application and Research Center Directorate have revealed a significant decrease in underground water resources, approximately 20 meters lower than the previous year in some regions. This decline has been attributed to excessive use of underground water, leading to the formation of sinkholes.
Professor Dr. Fetullah Arık, Director of the Sinkhole Application and Research Center, emphasized the impact of declining water levels on sinkhole formation. He stated that ongoing water extraction and drought have exacerbated the situation, causing a rise in the number of sinkholes across the region. The phenomenon is not limited to Konya but has also extended to neighboring provinces like Karaman and Aksaray.
According to Arık, the current number of registered sinkholes deeper than 1 meter stands at 604, with expectations of reaching 650 after this year’s updates. Additionally, there are numerous shallower sinkholes that are not included in the official count, posing a natural risk to the region.
The Director also highlighted the warning signs of sinkhole formation, such as muddy water and strange sounds underground. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any unusual observations to prevent potential disasters. By regulating the use of underground water resources, it may be possible to mitigate the risk of sinkhole formation in the long run.
As sinkholes continue to pose a threat to communities in Konya and surrounding areas, proactive measures and public awareness are crucial in safeguarding against environmental hazards.
