Gercüş residents protest decade-long lack of roads and utilities

Residents of Otlu and Bağözü-Arık hamlets in the Gercüş district of Batman have staged a protest at the Batman Special Provincial Administration to demand solutions for decade-long infrastructure deficiencies.

For approximately 10 years, villagers have struggled with a lack of reliable roads, water, and electricity. The absence of proper roads has created a critical safety issue, as ambulances are unable to reach the settlements. Residents recounted a past emergency where an injured person had to be transported via tractor to a nearby village before being transferred to an ambulance.

Protesters stated they have repeatedly petitioned authorities and received various promises, including visits from officials, but no permanent work has been completed. Some villagers have resorted to renting their own excavators to attempt to clear paths. The group is calling for concrete action rather than further verbal assurances to ensure access to essential services and utilities.