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Bursa, Türkiye’s fourth most populous city and a major industrial and agricultural center, is facing an unprecedented water shortage after its two main reservoirs, Nilufer and Doganci, completely dried up.
The combined storage of nearly 185 million cubic meters that once supplied water to more than 3 million residents has dropped to zero, forcing authorities to implement strict water cuts across the city.
According to data from the Bursa Water and Sewerage Administration (BUSKI), water levels in the Nilufer and Doganci reservoirs declined sharply within just 17 days.
The Nilufer Reservoir, with a capacity of 60 million cubic meters, fell from 2.33% on Sept. 28 to 0.49% on Oct. 12, 0.15% on Oct. 15, and finally to 0% by Oct. 17.
The 125 million cubic meter Doganci Reservoir, which supplies much of the metropolitan area, has also reached a critical state.
The rapid depletion has left Yildirim, Osmangazi, Nilufer, Gursu, Kestel, and parts of the Mudanya districts without regular access to water.
BUSKI has been enforcing 12-hour planned water cuts in these areas since Oct. 1.
Bursa’s daily water demand, estimated between 400,000 and 500,000 cubic meters, is now being met only partially through alternative sources.
Around 100,000 cubic meters are being transferred daily from the Cinarcik Reservoir, while the rest comes from underground wells and natural springs. Officials have urged residents to use water sparingly and avoid unnecessary consumption as reserves continue to fall.
Despite occasional rainfall earlier this month, the limited precipitation has not been enough to replenish the reservoirs, leaving the city in one of the most severe droughts in its history.
Environmental advocates have warned that the impact of the water crisis extends far beyond household consumption.
Murat Demir, president of the Nature and Environment Protection Association (DOGADER), said the shortage threatens both local livelihoods and Türkiye’s wider food supply.
“Bursa’s water is vital not only for drinking but also for producing the fruits and vegetables that feed much of Türkiye,” Demir said. “If this situation continues, we may no longer see tomatoes, eggplants, or peaches on our tables.”
He emphasized that inefficient irrigation methods are worsening the drought.
“Farmers continue to use flood irrigation, which wastes enormous amounts of water,” he added. “The state and local authorities must urgently support the transition to drip and sprinkler systems if we are to prevent further damage.”
Local authorities have confirmed that planned water cuts will remain in place until further notice. BUSKI has urged residents to store water safely and stay informed about updated schedules, while continuing awareness campaigns to promote conservation.
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