Turkey plans fresh water supply to drought-hit island

Gevas mayor says 'incredible' project to prevent desertification of Akdamar Island

By Onder Altinal

VAN, Turkey (AA) - Fresh water will be transferred to Akdamar Island from underneath a lake in eastern Van province's Gevas district via a 3.8-kilometer (2.4-mile) long route, according to a regional mayor Saturday.

"Natural water from the foot of Artos Mountain will be transferred to the island. It is an incredible project for Gevas," Gevas Mayor Sinan Hakan told Anadolu Agency.

Hakan said there was "serious" drought in the area since recent 10 years.

"If we do not take precautions, we face desertification of Akdamar Island," he added.

He said it was "important" to save almond trees and keep the island green during 12 months for tourists.

He added he expects 150,000 people to visit the island in 2018.

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