Protests Erupt Over Alleged Illegal Mining Exploration in Gümüşhane, Turkey

Residents in Gümüşhane, Turkey, are protesting against mining exploration activities, alleging that the work conducted by Altınordu, a subsidiary of Limak Holding, lacks legal basis. Şener Şengün, president of the Karadere Valley Plateau and Wildlife Protection Association, stated that the deep drilling operations have commenced without proper authorization.

Şengün claims that official correspondence with the Gümüşhane Provincial Directorate of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change indicates that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process has not yet been completed. He asserts that mandatory documents, such as the EIA report, decisions from the Pasture Commission, and permits from the Regional Directorate of Forestry, have not been secured before initiating drilling operations that reach depths of 300-400 meters.

“

Altınordu firm comes here and conducts drilling activities without obtaining any permits from local institutions; namely, the Gümüşhane Governorship, the Provincial Directorate of Environment and Urbanization, or the Forestry or pasture authorities. This is completely unlawful and unacceptable.

The association president expressed grave concerns that these activities pose a risk of polluting and depleting the drinking water sources for Araklı. He further warned that the valley faces a significant threat from uncontrolled quarrying, endangering endemic plant species, protected wildlife, and livestock grazing in the area. Şengün urged local authorities, particularly the Gümüşhane Governorship, to intervene and halt the operations, emphasizing that the region's natural heritage is being unlawfully destroyed.

“

This is an endemic area. There are endemic plants and species that need protection here. There are also animals living in this region. Sheep flocks, cow herds are in this area. This beautiful nature and environment is currently being unlawfully destroyed, practically sacrificed.