An unexpected discovery has been made in the Polatlı district of Ankara. While drilling for drinking water, a thermal water source with a temperature of approximately 40 degrees Celsius was found at a depth of 291 meters. This significant find is anticipated to be utilized for a thermal facility, potentially transforming the region’s economic and social landscape.
Discovery During Drinking Water Search
The Ankara Metropolitan Municipality Water and Sewerage Administration (ASKİ) initiated drilling operations in Sabanca Neighborhood to locate drinking water. During these efforts, a thermal source with a temperature of around 40 degrees Celsius was identified.
Faik Can, the headman of Sabanca Neighborhood, emphasized the importance of utilizing this natural resource found during the drinking water search. He reported that the drilling operations lasted nine days, and he closely monitored the entire process.
Multiple Water Veins Found
Can stated that during the drilling, both cold and hot water veins were encountered at different depths. “Water was reached at the first 15 meters. Subsequently, water emerged again at 100, 200, and 291 meters. The water found at 200 and 291 meters was reported to be hot. The other veins contain cold water. If these waters are separated, there is a possibility that the temperature of the hot water could exceed 50 degrees Celsius,” Can explained.
He further noted that the artesian water has been flowing spontaneously for about two months. The neighborhood is located 27 kilometers from Polatlı and 25 kilometers from Haymana. Can believes that if the thermal potential is harnessed, the region will experience significant economic and social revitalization.
Economic and Social Revitalization Expected
Can stressed the need for support in this regard. “With a thermal facility built here, we can attract young people back to our neighborhood. Currently, we are experiencing outward migration. If there is investment, people will return,” he stated, highlighting the potential for reversing the current demographic trend.
The discovery of thermal water in Polatlı presents a unique opportunity for the region to develop a new tourism sector, offering both health and recreational benefits. This could lead to increased employment, local business growth, and an overall improvement in the quality of life for residents.
Future Prospects and Community Impact
The potential for a thermal facility could not only boost local tourism but also provide a sustainable source of income for the community. The development would likely include accommodation, wellness centers, and other amenities, drawing visitors from across Turkey and potentially internationally.
Local authorities and investors are now expected to evaluate the feasibility of establishing a thermal complex, considering the geological characteristics of the area and the economic benefits it could bring. This initiative could serve as a model for rural development, transforming a region through the strategic use of natural resources.
The community’s enthusiasm for this project is high, as it promises to address long-standing issues such as youth migration and economic stagnation. The success of such a venture would depend on careful planning, sustainable practices, and strong community involvement.
Source: https://www.haberturk.com/ankara-haberleri/40055402-polatlida-icme-suyu-aranirken-termal-kaynak-bulundu
