NGOs demand halt to airport project in Ka?

Local NGOs have submitted a seven-page report to local state bodies opposing the construction of an airport in the resort of Ka? in the southern province of Antalya, as they fear the airport would have irreversible consequences for the town, which attracts tourists with its pristine environment.

The report, which was drafted by organizations including the Ka? Tourism Association, the Ka? Kalkan Patara Hoteliers Association, the Ka? Underwater Association and the Ka? Environment Platform, said an airport would not only damage the region's tourism, agriculture and environment, but it would also hit the economy of Ka?, as it would force the residents of its A?ullu, Belenli, Çukurba?, P?narba?? and Yeniköy neighborhoods to migrate.

The report also said that if an airport was constructed in the town, the culture and nature tourism of the town would disappear, as the area chosen for the construction is full of historic buildings and endemic plants, as well as agricultural plots.

Highlighting that the project would not be an investment in the town and would have irreversible consequences for the entire area, the representatives from the NGOs stressed the initiative should be stopped immediately.   

The report was submitted to a group of officials including District Governor Bilgihan Bayar, Police Commissioner Murat ?ahin, Justice and Development Party (AKP) district head Mutlu Uluta? and Republican People's Party (CHP) district head Ula? Akba?.

Last week, Ka? Mayor Halil Kocaer said the airport was only in the planning stages and construction was not yet certain. 

Such an airport would also need permission from Greece, as the location is very close to the Greek island of Kastellorizo.
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