Volunteers clear 10 tons of waste from Türkiye’s Zamanti River

In a significant environmental initiative, 30 volunteers from the Kayseri Provincial Directorate of Youth and Sports cleared approximately 10 tons of waste from Zamanti River, a popular tourism destination.

The river, located in Tomarza, Kayseri, underwent its first major cleaning in 25 years, thanks to the dedicated team.

Flowing through the picturesque Boke district, the Zamanti River offers visitors a tranquil escape with its lush surroundings and soothing sounds of bird songs. Known for its natural beauty, the river is a haven for canoeing and rafting enthusiasts, while also providing a peaceful retreat under the shade of centuries-old trees.

Despite its natural allure, the river had accumulated significant debris over the years. Responding to this environmental challenge, Youth and Sports Director Ali Ihsan Kabakci initiated a cleanup operation, assembling a team of 30 volunteers. Over the course of five days, the team meticulously cleared an 11-kilometer stretch of the river, removing plastic bottles, packaging waste, glass, and even large logs from the water.

A fresh start for the Zamanti River

Reflecting on the successful cleanup, Kabakci noted the dramatic improvement in the river’s flow and color. “Thanks to the tireless efforts of our team, we’ve restored the river to its former glory,” he said. “Our ultimate goal is to protect both the environment and the well-being of our community.”

Kabakci also highlighted the broader impact of the cleanup, pointing out that the removal of debris helped prevent potential flooding in the nearby Bunyan district, which recently experienced heavy rainfall.

Commitment to preserving Türkiye’s natural beauty

As Kayseri continues to attract nature lovers and adventure seekers, the successful cleanup of the Zamanti River is a testament to the importance of environmental stewardship. Kabakci emphasized the need for ongoing efforts to protect and restore natural beauty across the country, hinting at future cleanups in other water bodies.

This initiative not only rejuvenates one of Kayseri’s key natural attractions but also sets a precedent for similar efforts across Türkiye.