Kozlukebir Municipality bans use of drinking water for agricultural fields
In response to the mounting global pressure on freshwater resources, Kozlukebir Municipality has announced a new policy prohibiting the use of drinking water in agricultural fields, gardens, and olive groves. The municipality emphasized that this decision is aimed at protecting limited water supplies and ensuring their sustainability for future generations.
GLOBAL WATER CRISIS SPARKS LOCAL ACTION
The municipality drew attention to the growing gap between water demand and availability worldwide, citing falling groundwater levels, increasing pollution, disappearing rivers, and the excessive use of water in agriculture and industry as major contributing factors. These challenges, officials stated, have turned water into a matter of international competition rather than a local issue.
NO NEW CONNECTIONS FOR AGRICULTURAL USE
Under the new directive, no additional pipelines will be installed to provide drinking water for non-domestic purposes, particularly for agricultural lands and olive groves. This measure is described as definitive and irreversible, underscoring the municipality's commitment to responsible water use.
STRICT PENALTIES FOR ILLEGAL CONNECTIONS
Kozlukebir Municipality also warned that harsh penalties will be imposed on anyone found to be drawing unauthorized connections from the drinking water network. Authorities stressed that there will be zero tolerance for violations and called on the public to act responsibly.
SUPPORT FOR AFFECTED VILLAGES
To address existing water shortages, the municipality has been conducting drilling operations and utilizing natural sources to provide water to villages in need. These efforts have already resolved supply issues in several rural areas since last year.
FOUR NEW WELLS PLANNED
The municipality announced plans to drill four new water wells in the coming months, beginning with the villages of Hemetli and Mehrikoz. Details regarding the remaining two locations will be released shortly.
WATER DELIVERY TO ÜŞEKDERE
A major infrastructure project is also underway for Üşekdere, a village frequently experiencing water shortages. Natural spring water will be transported from a source located approximately 10 kilometers away, with work set to begin soon.
A CALL FOR PUBLIC AWARENESS
In its closing remarks, the municipality urged all citizens to practice water conservation and use drinking water solely for essential needs. “Let us not forget that water is a shared resource and the key to our collective future,” the statement concluded.
