Istanbul, July 2 – The 100th anniversary of the adoption of the Cabotage Law, symbolizing the Turkish Republic’s independence and sovereignty in its seas, was celebrated with an unprecedented mass underwater event. The ‘Respect for the Depths Diving Community,’ known for its meaningful underwater projects since 2014, organized ‘100 Dives in 100 Locations in the Blue Homeland,’ with simultaneous dives across Turkey’s coasts and in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). The main center for the event in Istanbul was the historic Moda Pier.
A Visual Feast Above and Below the Waves
The event, held with the participation of the Turkish Underwater Sports Club (TBK), the Marmara Underwater Center (MSM), the Kadıköy Municipality Diving Team, and local rowing teams and search and rescue teams, also turned into a visual feast above the sea. Underwater, divers unfurled Turkish flags and special banners emphasizing the significance of Cabotage Day.
Officials from the ‘Respect for the Depths Diving Community’ made a statement after the organization: “It is our duty to uphold the achievements of our Republic and our debt of gratitude to our seas and history. Diving into the depths since 2014 to commemorate our martyrs and keep our national values alive, this year we experienced the joy of Cabotage Day with ‘100 Dives in 100 Locations.’ Our aim was to celebrate this event with an enthusiasm similar to the historical Moda sea festivals and to once again show the whole world that our seas belong to the Turkish nation, and this heritage will live on forever with our youth.”
Nationwide Participation from the Black Sea to the Mediterranean
In addition to Moda, Beylikdüzü, and Tuzla in Istanbul, divers simultaneously took to the waters in 100 different locations, spanning a wide geographical area from the Black Sea to the Mediterranean, from the Aegean to Lake Van and Çorum, including Girne and Famagusta in the TRNC.
The Cabotage Law, enacted on July 1, 1926, granted Turkey full control over its maritime transport within its territorial waters, a crucial step in asserting national sovereignty after the War of Independence. This year’s centenary celebration underscored the enduring importance of this law and Turkey’s deep connection to its maritime heritage.
The ‘Respect for the Depths Diving Community’ has a history of organizing events that combine environmental awareness with national pride. Their previous projects have included underwater clean-ups and memorial dives for fallen soldiers, always aiming to raise public awareness about the importance of Turkey’s seas and its historical legacy.
The event at Moda Pier, a historic landmark in Istanbul, drew significant attention from both participants and spectators. The sight of numerous divers descending into the sea, proudly displaying national symbols underwater, created a powerful and emotional spectacle. The involvement of various local organizations, including sports clubs and municipal teams, highlighted the community-wide support for the celebration.
The simultaneous dives across such a vast area, from the bustling coasts of Istanbul to the serene waters of Lake Van, demonstrated the widespread commitment to commemorating this significant historical milestone. The inclusion of locations in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus further emphasized the shared cultural and historical ties across the region.
The organizers expressed their satisfaction with the turnout and the success of the event, reiterating their dedication to continuing such initiatives in the future. They hope that the ‘100 Dives in 100 Locations’ will inspire younger generations to appreciate and protect Turkey’s maritime heritage and its sovereignty over its seas.
Source: https://www.istanbulgazetesi.com.tr/moda-iskelesinde-tarihi-kutlama/amp
