The “Nature and Life Vigil,” launched by the Havaçor Village Association to protect nature in the village of Havaçor in the district of Ovacık in Dêrsim (Tunceli, Turkey), has entered its 11th day. The action was initiated in response to the excessive harvesting and commercialization of wild plants such as ışkın, çiriş, wild rose, mushrooms, thyme, sumac, and other native species. Organizers say the vigil, held in Havaçor Valley where tents have been set up, is expected to continue for about a month.

 

Representatives of civil society organizations, political parties, and environmental activists have been joining the vigil on a daily basis.

 

Association president Zeynel Hayıroğlu said that many plant species are being harvested and sold indiscriminately, warning that they could disappear in the future if current practices continue. He noted that local residents have maintained the vigil for three years and claimed that those criticizing the action are primarily individuals involved in the commercial collection and sale of the plants.

 

“Those who object to us say they cannot make a living otherwise. They should find other ways to earn their income,” he said.

 

Local resident Kader Diler stated that the community is standing guard to protect endangered plant species. She added that her family relies on beekeeping rather than collecting and selling wild plants.

 

Emphasizing that similar actions should be organized wherever environmental destruction occurs, Diler also criticized littering in the area around the Munzur River. “Munzur is a sacred place for us. Visitors need to be more respectful and take care of the environment,” she said.

 

MA / Ugurcan Boztas