Mersin, a key tourism and port city in the Eastern Mediterranean, has made strides in combating marine pollution with the introduction of the Electronic Ship Monitoring System (EGMS) by the Metropolitan Municipality.
Implemented in 2024, the project includes 52 cameras installed along a 54-kilometer stretch between Çeşmeli Beach and Kulak Stream, providing 24/7 surveillance of the blue waters. The system incorporates high-resolution and thermal cameras, radar, and meteorological tools, supported by a dedicated monitoring room.
During the year, 362 inspections were conducted, covering 4,830 ships. Nineteen vessels were identified as polluters, incurring fines totaling approximately 96 million lira. Additionally, cleanup efforts resulted in the collection of 57 tons of waste from the water surface and 55 tons from beaches.
Bülent Halisdemir, head of the Environmental Protection and Control Department, emphasized the municipality's commitment to monitoring and educating citizens on marine pollution, climate change, and environmental issues. The initiative aims to ensure that all citizens can enjoy Mersin's coastline while protecting its marine ecosystem.