Unregistered cave discovered in Antalya: Mapping begins, calls for protection issued

A cave previously not recorded has been identified in the Konyaaltı district of Antalya. During the initial descent by cavers from the Turkish Caving Federation and local environmental volunteers, it was determined that the cave begins with a vertical entrance of approximately 14 meters.

The initial inspection revealed dripstone formations, stalactites, chambers, and continuing galleries inside the cave. Mapping work has been initiated by the Turkish Caving Federation in the cave, the end of which has not yet been reached.

It was reported that the newly discovered cave is located approximately 3 kilometers from the İsli (Karaindibi) Cave, which is known for its historical wall paintings and whose protected area was previously expanded. The entire region is stated to be forest land.

DEMAND FOR REGISTRATION AND PROTECTION

The Geyikbayırı Life Platform recalled that a portion of the limestone quarry's operational area was effectively placed under protection when the protected area of the İsli Cave was previously expanded. The platform stated, "Now, a new and unregistered cave has emerged on the same line, this time at the edge of the license boundary."

The statement emphasized that the surroundings of the cave are important not only in terms of natural formations but also in terms of cultural landscape. It was noted that there are remains of an ancient farm settlement and historical paved roads a few hundred meters from the cave.

The platform stated that no historical structures or artifacts have been detected inside the cave so far, but that the area has not yet undergone scientific and archaeological examination. It was pointed out that the existence of this cave was unknown when the protection boundaries were determined.

The statement, which noted that open-pit mining and drilling-blasting methods are planned for limestone quarry activities in the region, argued that the cave's location right at the edge of the licensed area where blasting could occur poses a risk.

The Geyikbayırı Life Platform requested that the newly identified cave and its surroundings be urgently evaluated along with the mapping report of the Turkish Caving Federation and the opinions of archaeologists and geologists; that the cave registration process be initiated; and that the protection boundaries be reconsidered in conjunction with the İsli Cave protected area.

News Source: 12punto