According to information received from local residents, century-old pine nut trees are being toppled one by one as part of efforts to expand the mining site. In Çine, which holds an important place in Turkey's pine nut production, the trees known as "green gold" are being replaced by deep mining pits and clouds of dust.
"Our Future is Being Cut Down"
Residents of Seferler village and environmental activists are reacting strongly to the situation. Villagers state that not only the trees, but also underground water resources, agricultural lands, and the local wildlife are facing irreparable destruction.
The joint statement from villagers and environmentalists is as follows:
"This is not just tree felling; it is the destruction of a living space. Kaltun Madencilik's greed for profit is taking away the villagers' source of livelihood and our children's future. We expect the authorities to put a stop to this massacre."
Mining Company Continues to Expand
While the scope of the permits obtained by Kaltun Madencilik to expand its operational area in the region is sparking debate, environmentalists are questioning the legal basis of the project's EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment) reports and licenses. It is emphasized that legal action will be taken to stop the tree slaughter in the region and that the protest process will intensify.
News Source: 12punto
