Doctors Warn Teknecik Power Plant Is Poisoning Public and Environment

In a strongly worded statement, the association said the plant has been operating for years without any filtration or protective systems, using substandard fuel and neglecting proper maintenance — a situation that poses a direct threat to the air quality across the Mediterranean.

The association noted that the polluted black smoke contains harmful substances which could lead to increased cases of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart attacks, strokes, cancer, and developmental delays in children. It emphasized that vulnerable groups — including children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses — are particularly at risk.

The smoke, said to contain heavy metals, may also contribute to attention deficits and developmental disorders in children, as well as low birth weights in newborns.

Despite repeated warnings, the continued refusal to switch to cleaner fuel at Teknecik was described by the association as “a crime against public health.” The statement concluded with an urgent call for the immediate transformation of the Teknecik Power Plant.