The Darphane Fortress was first blown up with dynamite as part of the construction of the Ilısu Hydroelectric Dam in Batman’s antique Hasankeyf district, and now it is being demolished with construction equipment. Rüzgar Mountaineering Co. split the largest rock formation in the fortress with a lever jack and marked it with red lines, and then placed dynamite inside. The dynamite use has been captured on video, but the Batman Governorate still claims they are using “ecological explosives”.

Meanwhile experts say that when explosives are used, large chunks of rock can fall, and could possibly harm the small palace and the minaret of the Al Rizzik Mosque inside the fortress.

After the dynamite, demolition of the fortress continues with construction equipment.

EXCAVATION BRIDGE OVER THE TIGRIS RIVER KILLED THE FISH

Rocks within the fortress have been damaged and ecological destruction continues over the Tigris River. The temporary excavation bridge under construction over the river as part of the floodgates for the dam has caused a change in direction in the river bed and increased pollution in the river. As a result, thousands of fish have died.

Journalists are not allowed to enter the area.