Written by: Ahmed Abdel Salam
The Turkish Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Ibrahim Yumaklı, announced during the opening of the State Hydraulic Works (DSI) Directorate building in Kastamonu, that the Ministry intends to launch a tender for the Andıras Dam by the end of this year, at an estimated cost of approximately 29 billion Turkish Liras.
Andıras Dam: Energy and Flood Protection
The Minister explained that the dam will achieve two main goals: the first being to provide hydroelectric power production, and the second being to reduce flood risks in the region, noting that the project falls within a comprehensive strategy to manage water resources efficiently, face drought, and protect future generations.
Massive Water Investments in Kastamonu
Yumaklı reviewed the total investments in the province over the past 24 years, noting the inauguration of 149 facilities at a total cost of approximately 53 billion Liras, one-third of which were implemented during the last five years. The projects included dams, hydroelectric power plants, flood protection facilities, and irrigation networks.
Among the most prominent ongoing projects are: the Araç River channel improvement project, which is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2027, and the Gökırmak Kerek Dam, which will contribute to meeting drinking water needs and irrigating 74 thousand decares of agricultural land, alongside the Gökırmak Üprücak irrigation project, which has reached 45% completion.
Supporting the Livestock Sector in Devrekhanı
The Minister revealed that grants of approximately 500 million Liras have been provided to 92 projects within the framework of supporting rural investments, including 19 livestock breeding projects in the organized Devrekhanı region, where the construction completion rate has reached 97%. The plans aim to reach a capacity of 19 thousand heads, produce 8,500 tons of meat, and provide 1,500 direct job opportunities, with an expected annual economic contribution of 4.5 billion Liras.
Infrastructure Serving Four Provinces
The Director General of State Hydraulic Works, Mehmet Akif Baltaş, indicated that the new building serves a wide area covering Kastamonu, Bartın, Zonguldak, and Karabük, emphasizing the continued implementation of water projects throughout the country to enhance water and food security and support national development.
