Story perspectives

Konya's Agriculture Threatened by Sinkholes and Desertification

2/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Konya region faces threats to agriculture from sinkholes caused by falling groundwater and extreme heat, with nearly 700 sinkholes reported.
Experts link the crisis to dwindling rainfall and intensive farming practices.
Fatih Sik has tripled his water usage to irrigate crops.
The region faces desertification and 90% of Turkey faces similar threats.
Some farmers are shifting to sustainable practices such as dry farming and less water-intensive crops.

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Story summary

The Konya region faces threats to agriculture from sinkholes caused by falling groundwater and extreme heat, with nearly 700 sinkholes reported.
Experts link the crisis to dwindling rainfall and intensive farming practices.
Fatih Sik has tripled his water usage to irrigate crops.
The region faces desertification and 90% of Turkey faces similar threats.
Some farmers are shifting to sustainable practices such as dry farming and less water-intensive crops.