The Astonishing Rediscovery of an Ancient Village After 16 Years
After 16 years, the old village of Maden in the Hafik district of Sivas has resurfaced following the withdrawal of the Pusat Dam due to drought. The lands of Pusat, Maden, and Alanyurt villages were originally submerged after the construction of the Pusat Drinking Water and Irrigation Dam was completed in 2002 and impounded in 2008.
The water level in the dam has dropped significantly this year due to water supply to Sivas, irrigation of agricultural lands, and drought. As a result, the Maden village and its cemetery have been completely revealed. Celal Aksoy, the headman of Alanyurt village, expressed surprise at the sight, noting that the dam has never receded this much in the past.
Fuat Yıldız, a villager, also commented on the unprecedented withdrawal of water, stating that the Maden village has never been exposed like this before. The graves that were once underwater are now completely visible.
The resurfacing of the old village has amazed locals and visitors alike, showcasing the impact of the changing water levels and environmental conditions on the region. The emergence of the Maden village serves as a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of sustainable water management practices.
