Protest Walk

Map courtesy of BODOSK

Last month I wrote about the renewed threat of hotel construction in the beautiful bay of Kissebükü/Adalıyalı.  Today, Bodrumites are on their way to the proposed site to make their feelings quite clear - violation of this unspoilt spot is not acceptable. The protest organised by Mavi Yol Girişimi was due to be both a land and sea based demonstration but bad weather has caused the sea trip to be postponed to a later date.  I had intended to join the boat as I'd find a 14/15 km walk on rough ground a challenge, but went along to the covered market to see off the intrepid walkers as they got on buses to take them to Çukurgöl, where their 7km walk will start. BODOSK,  Bodrum's Walking Group are organising the hike and insisting that participants are well kitted out for the uneven terrain as this won't be a walk in the park.  That such organisation is necessary just to get to this spot makes one wonder how massive construction can even be considered.

At 9am this morning, 150 were expected to join the buses with plenty others following in cars and others arriving on bicycles.  It is hoped that 100 protesters are also walking from Mazı  to meet up at Adalıyalı.

Provisions for the walk

Only well kitted-out participants accepted

I felt guilty not getting on the bus too, but a gentleman with a dog was turned away, so I didn't agonise too much while Jake and I watched the buses drive off.   Walking that distance while my 4 pawed friend stayed at home wouldn't be right.  (I noticed later that the spurned dog had gone by car)

The list of supporters is impressive and note should be taken that the Bodrum mayor has also put his name to the petition.  These days local government has little say in what goes on in their area but let's hope people power can keep the bulldozers out.


Here is a You Tube clip of how the day progressed :