Abdulkadir Ardin's Fruit Garden Defies Ağrı's Harsh Climate

Farmer Abdulkadir Ardin has turned the barren slopes of Örtülü village, in the Doğubayazıt district of Ağrı Province, into a thriving orchard. The garden produces apples, pears, apricots, plums, cherries and other fruit despite six months of severe winter cold that had long discouraged cultivation in the region.

District Governor (Kaymakam) Mustafa Ayvat visited the site, joined the harvest of apricots and cherries, and said the project disproves the belief that "fruit growing cannot develop here". He highlighted the orchard as a model for local farmers and noted its potential to boost tourism, suggesting that climbers of Mount Ağrı and visitors to nearby İshak Paşa Palace should see the garden. The facility also includes a pool, restaurant, rest areas and lodging for visitors, and the district’s Agriculture and Forestry Directorate took part in the harvest.

Ayvat affirmed that the local administration will support similar initiatives to increase greenery, planting and fruit production in the region.