Nature Does Not Forgive — It Takes Its Revenge

Nature Never Forgives — It Will Take Its Revenge!

One of our most vital natural resources, forests, are under immense pressure due to a growing population, expanding agricultural lands, urbanization, and industrialization. The decline or economic degradation of forests in our country has become a pressing issue. One of the major contributing factors to forest loss is wildfires.
 

In recent days, we have been witnessing with deep sorrow the destruction of our forests by fires across the country. Particularly in the Aegean and Mediterranean regions, these fires have not only resulted in the loss of life and property but have also led to the complete destruction of forest habitats due to the government’s ineffective response and the fires reaching an uncontrollable scale.
 

PREVENTING AND EXTINGUISHING FIRES IS A PUBLIC DUTY!

The protection of forested areas and the extinguishing of forest fires are fundamental duties of the state. This is a constitutional obligation.
 

According to Article 169 of the Constitution,

"The state shall enact laws and take measures for the protection and expansion of forests. New forests shall be planted in areas where forests have been destroyed by fire; no other forms of agriculture or livestock may be carried out in these areas. All forests are under state supervision. Ownership of state forests cannot be transferred. These forests cannot be subject to rights in rem except for public benefit. No activities or actions that could damage forests shall be permitted."

Similarly, Article 69 of the Forest Law No. 6831 states:

"The Forest Administration shall take all necessary actions to prevent and extinguish forest fires. It coordinates with other public institutions before and during a fire. Volunteers may be involved in firefighting, and their equipment, clothing, and food expenses shall be covered."

Both the Constitution and the Forest Law make it clear that the responsibility for forest protection lies with the State, and the Forest Administration is the principal body in firefighting.