08.07.2026 23:40
Swimming in all inland waters, including the shores of Lake Van, has been completely banned to prevent an increase in drowning incidents during the summer months in Van's Muradiye district. The district governorate emphasized that there are no safe swimming areas in dams, ponds, rivers, and irrigation canals. Those who violate the ban will be subject to administrative fines under the Misdemeanor Law, and it has been announced that in the event of an accident or drowning, all legal and actual responsibility will lie with the individuals entering the water.
With the arrival of summer months, the increase in drowning incidents resulting in loss of life has prompted local authorities to take action. In the Muradiye district of Van, a radical security measure has been taken to protect the safety of citizens. The Muradiye District Governorate has completely banned swimming and entering the water in all inland waters, particularly along the Van Lake shoreline within the district boundaries.
"THERE IS NOT EVEN A SINGLE SAFE ZONE"
In an official statement issued by the District Governorate, it was announced that none of the dams, lakes, ponds, streams, creeks, and irrigation canals within the district boundaries are suitable for swimming. The statement noted that there is not a single region registered or permitted as a "safe swimming area" across the district, and emphasized that citizens must not approach the waters for their own safety and must strictly heed the warnings of authorized personnel.
PENALTY UNDER THE MISDEMEANOR LAW FOR THOSE WHO DISREGARD
Legal proceedings will be initiated against those who do not comply with the strict measures taken. It was reported that individuals who enter the water in violation of the ban will face administrative fines and sanctions under the provisions of Law No. 5326, the Misdemeanor Law, for failing to comply with orders issued under Law No. 5442, the Provincial Administration Law.
"LEGAL AND ACTUAL RESPONSIBILITY LIES WITH THE CITIZEN"
The statement further reminded that in the event of drowning, injury, or any other negative incidents resulting from entering the water in the designated prohibited areas, all legal and actual responsibility will rest entirely with the individuals who violate the rules.
The Muradiye District Governorate called on all district residents to meticulously adhere to the announced rules and bans in order to prevent tragic news that could harm families and young people, especially during the scorching summer heat.