Turkey tightens penalties for unsafe irrigation canal swimming as missing worker found dead

The State Water Works (DSİ) announced that entering dams, ponds, regulators and irrigation canals will be punishable under the Turkish Penal Code, warning that these structures pose serious drowning risks. Fines will be imposed on adult violators and, for those under 18, the fine will be levied against their parents.

In Adana, police carried out a patrol of irrigation canals amid heat waves of 32‑40 °C. Officers rescued children swimming in the canals, issued warnings, and fined seven people a total of 25,942 TL. Drone‑borne announcements and informational brochures were used to highlight the danger. The campaign follows 14 canal‑related deaths earlier this year.

Separately, in Serik district, Antalya, 36‑year‑old greenhouse worker Salih Arslantaş went missing after entering a canal with friends to cool off. After a three‑day search involving gendarmerie underwater rescue teams, AFAD and civilian divers, his body was discovered about four kilometres from the last known location. The incident prompted a forensic investigation and added to concerns over canal safety.