The outlook is grim for Konya Plain, a massive stretch of land in the eponymous province viewed as Turkey’s breadbasket. The number of sinkholes, which was only 600 in January 2021, has now reached 2,000, experts say, amid concerns over more formations.

Sinkholes, a result of diminishing groundwater levels, is are now closer to residential areas and agricultural fields, professor Fetullah Arık, an expert who heads a sinkhole research center at Konya Technical University, says.

Most emerge overnight and no casualties or damage have been reported so far, but Arık warns the risk is becoming higher. The center he leads cooperates with the Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency for measures against sinkholes, which vary in size but are large enough to pose a risk.

“They used to be more common in mountainous areas, on elevated ground, in the past, when the groundwater levels were higher. But their location shifted to lower ground when the levels dropped. As a matter of fact, the majority of sinkholes (that have) emerged in the past few years are near the places where people live and some even damaged houses, vehicles and stables,” said Arık.

Researchers are striving to map their formation. The research center recently wrapped up a study on their location, depth and whether they contained water. Their study will help to create a map for risky places, which can be accessed by the public, particularly farmers cultivating crops in areas with sinkholes.

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