Turkey Accelerates Digital Transformation in Basin-Based Water Management
· Tarım TV
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry aims to complete water footprint assessments in all river basins by 2030 and digitize water management to combat drought and the climate crisis.
National Water Council Meeting
Speaking at the 6th meeting of the National Water Council, hosted by the General Directorate of State Hydraulic Works in Ankara, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry İbrahim Yumaklı announced Turkey's new water management policies. Decisions of the council were evaluated at the meeting, where strategic steps against the effects of the climate crisis were discussed. Minister Yumaklı stated that 27 out of 37 decisions taken within the council have been successfully implemented. Yumaklı also touched upon the draft Water Law, which is currently under preparation, and informed the public that over 2,000 official görüş have been received for the regulation.
Dam Occupancy and Digitalization
Addressing the status of water resources across Turkey, Minister Yumaklı stated that the dam occupancy rate has risen to 72 percent. Yumaklı announced that digitalization efforts in water management are accelerating, with the Water Efficiency Information System reaching over 6,000 users in a short period. It was noted that over 120,000 certification applications are expected within the scope of this system. It was reported that water consumption in all sectors, from industry to agricultural production, will be monitored digitally.
Water Footprint in River Basins
Minister Yumaklı emphasized that significant progress has been made in basin-based water footprint assessment studies for the efficient use of resources. The process has been completed in the Sakarya, Susurluk, North Aegean, West Mediterranean, Büyük Menderes, Aras, Çoruh, and Gediz basins. The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry aims to complete water footprint studies in all basins in Turkey by 2030. This planning aims to conserve water in agriculture and industry.
Flood Management and Water Security
Regarding preparations for potential disasters, Yumaklı stated that flood management plans compliant with EU standards have been prepared for 25 river basins. Over 30,000 flood maps and evacuation plans have been created to identify potential disaster risks in advance. Smart water management systems and the reuse of treated wastewater were highlighted. The Ministry aims to secure the country's water and food security in the long term through these steps.