Elmacık Stream pollution in Gebze faces unresolved issues

Residents of the Tavşanlı neighborhood in Gebze, Kocaeli, report persistent pollution in the Elmacık Stream, characterized by foaming, color changes, and heavy odors. Local resident Rıdvan Güvenç alleges that industrial waste, recycling facilities, and various factories are discharging untreated wastewater into the stream.

According to local claims, the pollution stems from multiple industrial zones, including Pelitli, Tavşanlı, Gebze, and İMES. Residents express concern for public health, stating that the chemical discharge poses risks to humans, animals, and local vegetation. While authorities have reportedly responded to complaints by stating they are monitoring and inspecting the area, locals claim that no permanent solution or effective intervention has been implemented to stop the discharge.