The fate of Gidengelmez Mountain to be decided in Ankara: Massive capacity increase request from Cengiz Holding

Gidengelmez Mountain, located in the Akseki district of Antalya and the subject of many legends, faces the threat of extinction due to a bauxite mine capacity increase project. The project, which plans for 1.7 million truck trips per year, threatens the region's wildlife and water resources.

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The fate of Gidengelmez Mountain to be decided in Ankara: Massive capacity increase request from Cengiz Holding

A capacity increase is being sought for the bauxite mine in Akseki, Antalya, which provides raw materials for the Seydişehir Eti Alüminyum facility owned by Mehmet Cengiz. If the project, which covers a massive license area of approximately 8 million square meters, is implemented, the region's unique ecosystem and wildlife will face irreversible destruction.

Data in the project file reveals the scale of the destruction. If the capacity increase goes ahead, 32.5 million tons of waste material will be generated annually in a region that is critically important for water resources. Transporting the extracted ore to the facilities in Seydişehir could turn into a nightmare for regional traffic and air quality; according to calculations, this shipment means an average of 1.7 million truck trips per year.

The project area is intertwined with the Gidengelmez Mountain Wildlife Development Area (YHGS), one of Turkey's most sensitive ecosystems. The fact that "blasting operations" will be carried out in the region, which is the main breeding and living area for wild goats that are the subject of legends, is described by experts as a "hell scenario" for the local fauna.

CONTROVERSIAL 'POSITIVE' OPINION FROM THE MINISTRY

While the Ministry of Forestry's positive opinion for this sensitive area in 2022 drew backlash, the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process for the project has been ongoing for nearly two years. Despite objections from local residents and environmentalists, a critical threshold has been reached in the process.

FINAL DECISION ON MAY 21

The moment of truth is approaching for the project, which is feared to cause irreparable destruction to the Akseki geography. The Review and Evaluation Commission (İDK) meeting under the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change will be held in Ankara on May 21, 2026. Whether Gidengelmez Mountain will remain a wildlife sanctuary or turn into a giant mining site will become clear after this meeting.