Cappadocia valley converted into dumpsite by municipality

NEVŞEHİR

The municipality’s decision to dump garbage in the valley, allegedly tainting the image of the district. DHA photo

Ortahisar Valley in Turkey’s natural wonder Cappadocia has been converted into a dumpster by Ürgüp Municipality, but reaction is growing against the move, Doğan news agency reported.

Tourists, as well as those in the tourism sector, are voicing strong opposition to the municipality’s decision to dump garbage in the valley, allegedly tainting the image of the district, which is home to Cappadocia’s famous fairy chimneys.

No official statement has been issued so far on the issue.

The number of tourists visiting Cappadocia, one of the most popular tourism destinations in Turkey, increased 34 percent in January and February 2013 compared to the same two months in 2012. Cappadocia, famous for its chimney rocks, hot-air balloon trips, underground cities and boutique hotels carved into rocks, was visited by 171,748 Turkish and foreign tourists in January and February.