Yüksekova authorities rescue fish from drying wetlands

In the Yüksekova district of Hakkari, severe drought and receding water levels have threatened the ecosystem of the Nehil Sazlığı, a wetland known as a ‘Bird Paradise’. As the water receded, thousands of fish became trapped in mud within the wetlands and nearby streams in the villages of Çukurca, Dedeler, and Demirkonak.

Following reports from local residents, the Yüksekova District Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry and the Yüksekova Municipality launched an emergency intervention. Fire department teams used tankers to provide ‘life water’ (can suyu) to the drying streams, helping to maintain the survival of aquatic life.

Fisheries engineers and local officials also worked to collect fish from high-risk areas and relocate them to safer, cleaner water sources. Local villagers supported these efforts by releasing their own water resources into the streams to prevent mass fish deaths. Authorities stated that work will continue to ensure the sustainability of the natural ecosystem.