Millions spent, but Işıklar Bozyer Dam fails to hold water, angering producers

Farmers in Aydın's Karacasu district are facing significant hardship due to persistent water leaks from the Işıklar Bozyer Dam, a project initiated nearly a decade ago with high hopes. The dam, designed to store 950,000 cubic meters of water and irrigate 2,000 hectares across five neighborhoods, is failing to retain water, leaving producers unable to adequately water their crops. Producers report that the leaks are causing water to flow away ineffectively, severely impacting their olive and tobacco yields. They are urging the State Hydraulic Works (DSİ) and the local Irrigation Union to address the problem immediately. Mustafa Girgin, a former local headman, believes the leaks stem from damage to the dam's protective lining during its construction. "I think the nylon was damaged and punctured because the excavators moved over it during construction," he stated, noting that the leaks have persisted for years without repair. Adding to the farmers' frustration, the dam's opening for irrigation has been delayed in recent years. While historically opening on April 15, it has only opened on June 15 for the past two years. Last year, the accumulated water was depleted within approximately one month. "This year, there was a lot of rain in the winter and afterwards. If there were no leaks, the amount of water that entered the dam could have lasted for about two years," Girgin explained, expressing disbelief that the dam was closed despite having ample water. Girgin recounted personal losses, stating, "I have olive groves. My olive trees dried up due to insufficient water, and I suffered serious damage." He is demanding that DSİ repair the dam. The situation is particularly galling given the recent heavy rainfall, which should have filled the reservoir sufficiently for two years. "Even yesterday, while measuring the dam, I saw the water overflowing," he said, questioning the rationale behind closing the dam when it is clearly full. He called for an investigation into the construction and maintenance of the dam.

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I think the nylon was damaged and punctured because the excavators moved over it during construction.