Despite its official population being recorded at 200,000, Bodrum’s population surges during the summer months, exacerbating the city’s infrastructure challenges. The burgeoning number of hotel and villa projects has further strained the city's water resources, turning the water shortage into an increasingly unmanageable issue.
According to a report by Gamze Elçi from Sözcü TV, Bodrum is grappling with significant water shortages following the depletion of water in the Geyik and Mumcular dams, which supply the city. Residents are attempting to cope with the extended water outages, which can last for days during the peak summer heat, by finding their own solutions.
Residents' adaptations to the crisis
Many households in Bodrum, including those in residential areas and housing complexes, have installed large water tanks on their rooftops and in their gardens. These tanks are filled on days when water is available, providing a temporary buffer against the water cuts that can last up to nine days.
The interiors of homes in Bodrum are now lined with water dispensers and storage containers. However, locals are concerned about the quality of water delivered by municipal trucks, suspecting it may not be safe for consumption. There has been a notable increase in infections, particularly in Turgutreis, as reported by local residents.
Concerns over water quality
Şeyda Ertem, a resident, shared her concerns: "We are now forced to source water from wells using tractors. This water has no analysis reports. Last night, we took our son to the hospital; he's been very sick for two nights. It's clearly an infection, indicating there is an issue with the water. We are worried."
Another resident Kaan Ertem added, "There have been times when we didn’t have running water for 8-9 days. Sometimes we receive messages stating water will be available at a certain hour, but then three days pass and still no water. It's very frustrating."
Hotel operators in Bodrum are also struggling, trying to avoid disrupting their guests' stays by relying on stored water. The financial burden and uncertainty of ongoing water cuts are causing significant concern as they navigate the busy summer season.