Controversial hydroelectric power plants projects lack a mechanism for the public to exercise control over such endeavors, according to a recent report from the Chamber of Electrical Engineers, or EMO.
There are a number of prominent problems with the projects, including a lack of public control; a lack of proper "fish passageways" allowing marine animals to transit the areas in question; problematic construction excavations, difficulties in electrical distribution and transmission; the excessive use of subcontractors in the business, as well as other issues, according to EMO secretary Erdal Apacik.
EMO prepared the technical report after observing the building process of up to 2,000 plants in the eastern Black Sea region.
"Our streams have been allocated to the private sector with a freemarket mentality without protecting the public benefits," Apacik said, noting that the EMO has been in favor of utilizing Turkey‘s "hydraulic potential" for years.
The report also drew attention to a number of other points: In some plants, structures that especially do not fit in with the natural surroundings are being built. Fish passageways are especially being built just for show.
Measurement facilities to control the release of necessary water are inadequate.
Some plants do not release the water they are supposed to or release a lesser amount than was agreed to.
Measures concerning workplace safety are inadequate. No rule is being followed to ensure the safety of surrounding villages‘ roads.
(Hürriyet Daıly News; 22.08.2011)
