22.07.2026 18:20
The water meter application launched in villages in Bolu to save water has faced backlash in some settlements. Residents of Ulumescit village, stating that they installed the water line with their own means years ago, collected approximately 200 signatures to cancel the practice. The villagers announced that they would take the matter to court if they cannot achieve results.
In line with the decision taken by the Bolu Provincial General Assembly, a water meter application has been implemented in the villages. While the application, which aims to increase water conservation, has received support in some villages, citizens in the Ulumescit village, connected to the central district, reacted to the decision.
VILLAGERS COLLECTED SIGNATURES FOR THE CANCELLATION OF THE APPLICATION
Stating that they built the village's drinking and utility water line with their own means about 30 years ago, the villagers argued that the Special Administration made no contribution to the water infrastructure. Expressing that they have undertaken the maintenance of the water line until today, the citizens collected approximately 200 signatures for the cancellation of the application and submitted them to the authorities. Additionally, it was learned that the village headman faced backlash for approving the application, and some members of the council of elders resigned from their duties.
"WE WILL TAKE IT TO COURT IF NECESSARY"
Salih Tunuslu, one of the village residents, stated that the water reaches the village by gravity from natural springs and argued that the application is unnecessary. Tunuslu, who said they have conveyed their objections to official authorities, expressed that they will pursue legal action if their demands are not met.
"WE ESTABLISHED THE WATER LINE WITH OUR OWN MEANS"
Mehmet Civan, the former village headman, claimed that the water infrastructure was built without state support. Civan, who explained that they constructed the approximately 8-kilometer water line with the means of the villagers, stated that all expenses, from the reservoir to the pipes, were covered by the village community.
"OUR AIM IS NOT TO OPPOSE THE STATE, BUT TO MAKE OUR VOICE HEARD"
Nurcan Uzunöz, another village resident, stated that there has never been a water shortage in the village and expressed that their aim is not to oppose the state, but to make their voice heard. Uzunöz emphasized that water reaches the village entirely through natural flow and that they expect a solution-oriented approach.