Turkish Parliament takes action against environmental threats to Lake Bafa, Latmus

Located between the provinces of Aydin and Mugla in Türkiye, Lake Bafa and the ancient city of Latmus, perched atop the Besparmak Mountains, are under serious environmental threat due to industrial pollution, agricultural runoff, and expanding mining operations.

In response, the Turkish Parliament has launched a formal review following public appeals.

Parliament responds to environmental concerns

The Turkish Parliament initiated action after receiving numerous petitions from citizens and environmental advocates. Lawmakers highlighted that both Lake Bafa and the Latmus region are at risk of irreversible damage.

“Environmental threats—particularly pollutants carried into Lake Bafa by the Menderes River as it flows through industrial and agricultural zones—are endangering this valuable natural and historical heritage,” said a parliamentary official.

Mining lobby pressures authorities

Muhammed Aktas, head of the Department of Natural Sites and Protected Areas at the Ministry of Environment, stated that mining interests have formed a powerful lobby in the region due to valuable quartz deposits.

“We know that quartz is highly sought after. Major corporations have already established claims here, and we are constantly under pressure,” Aktas said during a parliamentary session.

Stricter protections in progress

The Ministry of Environment is working on an updated protection plan that would ban all mining activity in the area. If officially registered, the new conservation status would also suspend currently operating licenses.

“If this new status is enacted, even existing mining permits will be revoked,” Aktas confirmed.