Gendarmerie patrols Hazar Lake to ensure public safety

The Gendarmerie Public Order Boat Command is conducting continuous patrols on Hazar Lake in the Sivrice district of Elazığ to ensure public safety and environmental protection. The specialized four-person team is trained in lifesaving, first aid, and rapid boat operation to monitor the 56-kilometer coastline located between the Hazarbaba and Mastar mountains.

The team’s responsibilities include enforcing swimming bans in dangerous areas, preventing illegal fishing, inspecting motorized and non-motorized watercraft, and stopping unauthorized diving or underwater research. They also respond to emergency calls and provide security during water sports events.

Elazığ Governor Numan Hatipoğlu emphasized the importance of Hazar Lake as a significant natural asset for both the province and Turkey. He stated that authorities are working with determination to protect the lake, specifically noting that patrols are maintained around the sunken city area to prevent unauthorized entry and ensure the safety of citizens.