Fire ban in Munzur Valley remains only on signs

The increasing visitor density during the summer months in Munzur Valley National Park, one of Turkey's significant natural areas, has brought discussions about protection measures and inspections back to the agenda. Despite signs indicating that picnics with fires are prohibited, it is reported that fires are being lit, camping is taking place, and fishing is occurring in various parts of the valley.

Declared a national park in 1971, the Munzur Valley stands out with its approximately 42 thousand hectare area, streams, forests, steep cliffs, endemic plants, and wildlife. However, especially during the summer period, haphazard picnic and camping activities both increase the pressure on natural life and heighten the risk of forest fires.

Barış Yıldırım, a member of the Tunceli Bar Association Board of Directors, emphasized that the Munzur Valley is of critical importance not only on a local scale but also across the country in terms of biodiversity. Yıldırım stated that over 2 thousand 250 plant species have been identified in studies conducted in the region, and approximately one-fifth of these are endemic.

HUMAN PRESSURE DESPITE PROTECTION STATUS

Yıldırım stated that the valley is home to species important for conservation such as the wildcat, chamois, bear, wolf, golden eagle, lynx, and otter, and that the Munzur trout also finds its habitat only in the Munzur River. For this reason, he stated that the national park status should not remain only on paper.

Drawing attention to the provisions of the Constitution regarding the protection of the environment, environmental health, and natural assets, Yıldırım said that the administration has a responsibility in protected areas. He expressed that area protection guides, forest rangers, and national park officials should work effectively throughout the national park.

Stating that fires are being lit and camping is taking place despite the ban, Yıldırım said, "Haphazard picnics are being held, even though lighting fires is prohibited. Fishing is being done haphazardly. We see this along the road as we go to the Ovacık district."

Referring to a recent fire in the region, Yıldırım recalled that according to information reflected in the press, the fire was linked to people who went to collect garlic. He said that such examples show how the uncontrolled increase in human activities poses a risk to the national park ecosystem.

Stating that the protection status should not be limited to just a declaration, Yıldırım expressed that necessary measures should be taken within the scope of the Environment Law, Coastal Law, National Parks Law, Law on the Protection of Cultural and Natural Assets, and international conventions. "A protected area means that the area is protected against human pressure, preserved with its habitats, and transferred to future generations," Yıldırım said.

Arguing that the Munzur Valley has a special place in terms of biodiversity among the 50 national parks in Turkey, Yıldırım emphasized that for the region to be transferred to future generations, prohibitions should not be limited to visible signs and must be supported by effective on-site inspections.

News Source: 12punto