Alibey Dam

Alibey Dam is a dam constructed on the Alibey Creek to meet Istanbul’s drinking and utility water needs to meet. It is managed under various protection plans to ensure the sustainable management of Dam and water water sources and to minimize environmental impacts related to water supply.

Alibey Dam – TRT News

History and Technical Features

Construction of Alibey Dam began in 1966 and it was commissioned in 1983. It is known to be an earth-fill dam with an annual capacity of 36 million cubic meters and a catchment area of 160 square kilometers soil basin.

Hydrographic and Environmental Significance

Alibey Dam is one of the key water sources supplying Istanbul’s water needs. However, in recent years, water levels have significantly declined due to quarries and mining activities in its vicinity, dropping to as low as 7.41 percent. This level represents the lowest recorded in the past decade.

Protection Policies

To preserve the quality and quantity of water in the dam, the “Alibey Dam Lake Drinking and Utility Water Basin Protection Plan” has been implemented. According to this plan:

• No direct or indirect discharge of waste into the lake is permitted.
• Urban development plans and modifications within the basin are regulated based on the principle of protecting the dam ecosystem.
• Existing industrial facilities and commercial enterprises may continue operations without generating industrial wastewater, but new industrial facilities are not permitted.

Water Level and Current Status

Overall fill rates of dams in Istanbul are on a declining trend. As of 2024, the fill rate at Alibey Dam has dropped to 7.41 percent, causing historic water arches day to emerge as much of the water has been withdrawn.

Alibey Dam plays a vital role in Istanbul’s drinking water supply strategic. However, environmental threats and climate change are contributing to declining water levels and jeopardizing its sustainability. Strict implementation of current protection policies is critical for the dam’s long-term viability long.