Turkish Man Transforms Drought-Hit Konya into Oasis

A 74-year-old man in the district of Karapınar in Konya has created an oasis-like garden in one of the driest areas of the country.

In the district of Karapınar in Konya, Turkey, which is known for receiving the least amount of rainfall and is associated with erosion, the garden of 74-year-old Osman Büyüksırıtoğlu, who started afforestation and environmental landscaping 33 years ago, is drawing attention for its oasis-like appearance.

The garden of Osman Büyüksırıtoğlu, who started forestation and landscaping 33 years ago in Karapınar, has attracted the attention of citizens with its turquoise water and variety of plants.

Büyüksırıtoğlu, who has introduced around 2,000 trees, an artificial pond and 40 different animal species to his garden, contributed to the fight against erosion by foresting a 10-kilometer (over 6-mile) area.

The luscious garden hosts many animals, especially birds, an artificial pond, a pool, a mini waterfall and colorful flowers.

Büyüksırıtoğlu stated that the area surrounded by arid lands in the district where he moved in 1990 has now become lush and green. He also pointed out that there is nothing that human beings cannot do if they put their mind to it. He had initially come to the area to provide materials for the airport construction but started to operate a sand quarry, which is now next to the garden.

"We started planting hundreds of trees with the intention of setting an example and giving something back to nature. The positive response and support from the community have been overwhelming. I am deeply grateful to them; their love and encouragement mean the world to me. Karapınar now feels like my hometown. Trees play a vital role in erosion-prone areas, and their maintenance is crucial. This is not a task that I alone can accomplish, so my neighbors and several volunteers have also joined me in tending to the garden," Büyüksırıtoğlu shared.