Konya farmers protest illegal well closures

Tensions rose in the Göçü neighborhood of Karatay, Konya, as State Hydraulic Works (DSİ) teams, accompanied by gendarmerie, attempted to close illegal wells. The operation led to brief scuffles between authorities and local farmers.

Producers, particularly those growing corn and sugar beets, expressed strong opposition to the timing of the closures. They argued that shutting down wells in the middle of the irrigation season poses a severe risk to crops and livelihoods. Farmers noted that while they understand the need for regulation, the current timing causes significant agricultural damage.

Local producers also highlighted broader issues in the Konya Plain, such as insufficient surface water and the risk of sinkholes caused by declining groundwater levels. Following the incident, farmers visited the AK Party Konya Provincial Presidency to report their grievances and seek a solution to the crisis.