Drone-assisted controls carried out by Dicle Electric groups in Şanlıurfa’s Viranşehir district revealed illegal electricity use in the region. As a result of the investigations, 29 unregistered transformers used for agricultural irrigation were identified.

Authorities stated that the total installed power of these illegal transformers detected reached 4 thousand 440 kilovolts. It was stated that this capacity is equivalent to the daily electricity consumption of approximately 3 thousand households.

Usage areas of illegal transformers

Inspections were concentrated in Yağızlar, Fareli, Kızlardarayı and Sağırtaş neighbourhoods. During the technical examinations, it was determined that the power capacities of the transformers varied between 50 kilovolts and 250 kilovolts.

It was understood that the transformers in question were used for irrigation of cotton fields and second crop cultivation areas. It was determined that groundwater drawn from deep water wells powered by illegal electricity was used for agricultural irrigation with the power provided through these transformers.

Legal proceedings were initiated against 29 illegal transformers detected. An application was made to the Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office requesting the seizure of the transformers.

Stubble burning violations were also observed

The drones used by Dicle Elektrik teams during the inspections recorded not only illegal transformers but also those who violated the ban on stubble burning. It was determined that some individuals burned stubble in wheat fields whose harvest was completed despite the ban of Şanlıurfa Governorship.

The images obtained from these stubble burning events, which carry a great fire risk, were handed over to the gendarmerie teams for the necessary procedures to be carried out. It was emphasized that controls in the region will continue and legal processes will be followed meticulously.

What do you think about the effects of such controls on illegal electricity use and environmental safety?