The increasing number of mining sites and dam projects in Bingöl (Çewlig) is causing rapid deforestation across the region. The areas of Kiğı and Kara Cehennem, where gold mining is being pursued, are among the primary sites of forest clearance. Due to its geographic structure, Solar Power Plants (GES) have also been built in the region, further contributing to the destruction of natural areas.

Despite public opposition, the number of projects continues to grow, leading to a sharp decline in the region’s forest cover. This deforestation negatively impacts beekeeping and animal husbandry, which are the main sources of livelihood for the local population and contributes to the depopulation of the area.

There are currently 113 mining sites across Bingöl. The city is particularly targeted for gold, copper, and zinc extraction, with operations heavily concentrated in the Servin village area of Genç district and in Kiğı. These mining activities are damaging the region’s clean air and underground water resources. In addition, companies are cutting down trees to clear land and open roads for the mining sites.

Canfidal Boldaş, secretary of the Provincial Coordination Board of the Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects (TMMOB), spoke to ANF and emphasized that deforestation policies are being implemented systematically. He warned that the ecological destruction in the region is evolving into irreversible devastation.

Mining threatens life in the region

Canfidal Boldaş said, “Bingöl has become a target of systematic deforestation policies. This destruction threatens not only natural resources but also life itself in the region. The process driven by mining and energy projects is leading to outcomes that go as far as displacing the population.”

We do not completely reject mining

Boldaş emphasizing that, as an environmental engineer, he does not entirely oppose mining and continued: “As technical experts, we do not reject mining altogether; however, when these activities exceed the needs of the people and focus solely on economic profit, ecological destruction begins. Nature can tolerate a certain degree of intervention, but once the threshold is crossed, irreversible damage occurs. Forests are carbon sinks. When these areas are destroyed, the carbon gases released into the atmosphere can no longer be absorbed, accelerating global warming. The climate crisis we face today is precisely the result of such destructive policies.”

Activities carried out under the name of mining serve a triple purpose

Canfidal Boldaş pointed out that a wide range of minerals are being extracted in Bingöl, from first-category sand and gravel to fifth-category heavy metals. He stated:

“In the village of Ölmez in Kiğı, gold exploration activities are underway. These so-called mining operations serve a triple purpose: enriching corporations, destroying forests, and depopulating the region. Mining activities directly impact agriculture, livestock, and water resources in the area. The ecological balance is rapidly deteriorating.

Explosions carried out as part of mining projects, along with dust emissions and wastewater, are contaminating both surface and underground water sources. This poses a direct threat not only to environmental health but also to public health. At the same time, agriculture and animal husbandry are coming to a near standstill.”

A mining model that respects nature and society must be developed

Canfidal Boldaş stated that a mining model must be developed with respect for both nature and society and said, “Mining should not be carried out with a colonial mentality, but rather in a way that meets the needs of the people and does not harm nature. Otherwise, both the ecological crisis and social destruction will deepen. The natural riches of Bingöl must be protected, and the public should be made aware of the consequences of this destruction.”