Lake Sıhke in Van, Turkey, ‘at risk’ of pollution and global warming

Rivers and lakes support biodiversity and ecosystems. Lake Sıhke in Van, Turkey, is ‘at risk’ due to global warming and pollution. The pollution caused by lack of adequate treatment for sewage and other urban waste is severely impacting the wildlife and the lake’s ecosystem.

This pollution can lead to an immediate decline in the number and types of animals in the region. Uncontrolled disposal generates serious pollution. Environmental contamination threatens Lake Sıhke.

The lake, which sustains much wildlife on the ‘Silk Road’, is also under threat of drying out. As its waters have receded, ‘hills’ have begun to appear in the lake.

Nature Observers Association Board Member, Dr Mustafa Akkuş, has warned that “the lake may dry out completely”. He pointed out that global warming negatively affects nature. The loss of snow in the mountains has disrupted flows from mountain streams and the pollution is additionally disrupting the ecosystem, he noted.

Akkuş stated that the pollution threat is so serious that it may cause the loss of habitat for birds and fish. He said that treatment facilities should be established in the region immediately. If it continues like this, he warned, there may not be a lake called Lake Sıhke in the future.