Cengiz distributes brochures for gold mine: Atatürk's photo also used

A gold mining project that has sparked controversy due to its potential impact on agricultural lands and water resources is being implemented in the Alpagut-Atalan region of Eskişehir's Mihalgazi district. Cengiz Holding has received EIA approval for this project. The initial EIA report prepared for the project was canceled in April 2025 and was approved in July with an "EIA positive" decision. During this process, local residents expressed strong opposition, arguing that cyanide would harm agricultural lands and water resources.

ATATÜRK'S PHOTO USED IN BROCHURES

In an effort to reduce public opposition to the project, Cengiz Holding printed and distributed brochures featuring a photograph of Atatürk. Under the heading "Gold Mining is a National Struggle," the brochures included the statement, "Gold mining in Turkey began in 1933 under the leadership of Atatürk." In the same brochures, the company claimed that cyanide does not cause negative effects such as cancer, hereditary diseases, or infertility.

Furthermore, it was emphasized that the gold produced by mining activities would be purchased by the Central Bank in Turkish Lira, and that gold mining would provide employment and tax revenue. However, the environmental impacts of the project and the public's reaction have not been ignored.

AGRICULTURE, GREENHOUSING, AND WATER RESOURCES WILL BE HARMED

It is stated that if the project proceeds, at least 57 thousand trees will be cut down in the Alpagut region, and the local population engaged in agriculture, greenhouse farming, livestock, and beekeeping will suffer significant damage. It is also noted that water resources will be destroyed by this project. Attention was drawn to the fact that the environmental impacts of the project would lead to major devastation for the local people.