Elmacık Deresi stream faces alleged industrial pollution in Kocaeli

Residents in the Gebze district of Kocaeli are reporting severe environmental pollution in the Elmacık Deresi stream. Local resident Rıdvan Güvenç claims the water undergoes intense foaming, color changes, and emits a heavy odor, particularly during rainy weather.

Güvenç alleges that various industrial facilities, treatment plants, and recycling firms are using rainfall as an opportunity to discharge chemical waste and untreated effluents into the stream. He reported that this contamination has led to the death of local animals, including his own pets.

Despite repeated reports to the Kocaeli Provincial Directorate of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, residents claim that inspections are insufficient. Allegations have been made that officials fail to take water samples or conduct thorough investigations, often dismissing the complaints by stating the water appears normal.