Bolu, Turkey sets 699,000‑lira fine for picking lotus flowers

On 30 June 2026, local authorities in Bolu province announced an administrative penalty of 699 197 Turkish lira for anyone who picks or damages lotus (nilüfer) flowers in Gölcük Nature Park and Abant Lake National Park.

The fine is imposed under the 2872 Environmental Law, which classifies the lotus as a protected species, and aims to safeguard the blossoms that draw both domestic and foreign visitors each spring.