Experts warn as sinkholes approach residential areas in Turkey’s Konya

Duvar English

The number of sinkholes in Turkey's central Konya province is increasing as underground water levels recede, causing the ground to collapse. Speaking to DHA, Associate Professor Arif Delikan from Konya Technical University's Department of Geological Engineering stated that sinkhole formation is accelerating in the Seyithacı and Ekmekçi highlands of Karapınar district. 

"This area is where the majority of sinkholes are seen. The newly formed sinkholes are occurring mainly between the Seyithacı and Ekmekçi highlands in Karapınar. Alongside these, many other sinkholes have also formed this year. The region is currently very dynamic, especially compared to last year," Delikan said.

Residents are increasingly concerned as the number of sinkholes rises, Delikan noted. "We worked in that area for three years. Together with Konya's AFAD Provincial Directorate, we selected that area as a pilot region. Drone flights are being conducted to detect potential sinkholes, and we previously identified areas that have since collapsed.

However, there are many homes in the highlands. The distance between the most recently formed sinkhole and the houses might be no more than 20-30 meters. We also spoke with the residents there. The sinkholes have started forming very close to the homes, but fortunately, none have formed directly under the houses yet. There are potentially dozens of sinkholes near, around, or beside these homes, but as of now, none have formed right next to them," he said.

"Urgent action is needed. Relevant agencies will take steps regarding this. Whether it involves relocating the area or continuing to live there, there are many examples abroad. In some places, sinkholes form on one side, while life continues on the other. Whether the area will continue like this or if people will be relocated from the heavily affected regions depends on the decisions made by the relevant authorities," Delikan concluded.