Judicial obstacle to mining project in Ordu: Stay of execution decision

An exploration was previously carried out in the region within the scope of the lawsuit filed by Ordu Environmental Association (ORÇEV) and 73 citizens living in the region. While the areas where the project will be implemented were examined on-site during the exploration, the effects that the mining activity could have on the natural and social life in the region were evaluated in the report prepared by the experts.

Taking into account the evaluations in the exploration and expert report, the court suspended the execution of the administrative action allowing mining activity. It was stated that the decision was made without the possibility of appeal.

73 CITIZENS BECAME PLAINTIFFS

ORÇEV President Ertuğrul Gazi Gönül, in his statement following the court's decision, stated that the case was filed together with the people of the region and that the process had been followed for a long time.

Stating that a reconnaissance was previously carried out in the region within the scope of the case, Gönül said that many citizens were present in the area during the reconnaissance.

REMARKABLE FINDINGS IN THE DISCOVERY REPORT

According to Gönül, in the discovery report taken into consideration in the court's decision, it was pointed out that the project could disrupt the integrity of the pasture areas. The report also stated that mining activity could damage the integrity of forest areas and cause the destruction of wetlands in the region. In addition, it was stated that the project may pose a risk for historical and cultural assets in the region, and these assets may be damaged or destroyed. It was evaluated that animal husbandry, which is an important source of income in the region, may also be negatively affected by the mining project.

ORÇEV President Ertuğrul Gazi Gönül stated that the decision is important in terms of protecting the living spaces of the citizens living in the region.

It was stated that ORÇEV and the local people will continue to follow the process regarding the effects of the project on natural habitats.