The Drought in Seyhan Dam Lake Transformed Agriculture

Historical Drought in Adana and the Situation of Seyhan Dam

Experiencing the driest period in the last 52 years, Adana has seen water levels in the Seyhan Dam Lake decrease significantly. According to meteorological data, the city received 26 percent less rainfall compared to last year, and the empty areas around the lake have been transformed into agricultural land.

Farmers Taking Advantage of the Opportunity

With the withdrawal of water, citizens have planted cabbage, lettuce, and legumes in the newly exposed areas. Farmers are eagerly awaiting the harvest season. However, this situation also brings concerns about sustainability in agricultural terms.

Warnings and Future Concerns

Mehmet Akın Doğan, the President of the Yüreğir Agricultural Chamber, stated, "Our clean water resources have dwindled. We have 2-3 years of water left for agricultural use in the Adana region. If this winter does not bring sufficient rainfall, 2026 will be a disaster for our country." Doğan also emphasized that starting from November 1, water will not be supplied to the plain areas with the activation of the electricity plant.

Climate Change and Its Effects on Agriculture

Doğan noted that farmers have taken advantage of the drying wetlands to plant crops, stating, "If it rains in winter, the planted areas may be submerged." Farmers reacted to this situation and tried to defend their positions regarding the areas recorded by drones.