Şanlıurfa land privatization sparks parliamentary inquiry

Debate has emerged in the Turkish Grand National Assembly regarding the privatization of approximately 400 decares of public land in Şanlıurfa. The land, located in the Karşıyaka neighborhood of the Haliliye district directly opposite the City Hospital, consists of 20 properties owned by the General Directorate of State Hydraulic Works.

DEM Party Şanlıurfa Deputy Dilan Kunt Ayan submitted written inquiries to the Minister of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, Murat Kurum, and the Minister of Treasury and Finance, Mehmet Şimşek. Ayan raised concerns about the strategic importance of the area, questioning whether the privatization would negatively impact future urban planning, transportation, infrastructure, and green spaces.

Specifically, the inquiries seek clarification on whether the land is designated for social facilities, parks, or parking lots, and whether urban impact and transportation studies were conducted. Ayan also requested information regarding the current market value of the 20 properties involved in the privatization program.