A study on assessing the urban growth, population, and water resources of Bodrum Peninsula, Turkey

Abstract

In recent years, it has been difficult to establish a supply-demand balance between urban growth, increasing population, and existing water resources in many countries. In this study, the Bodrum Peninsula, which is an important tourism center for Turkey, was examined in terms of the relationship between the urban growth of the peninsula, population projections, the need for drinking and potable water, and the availability of the existing water resources. Using the Geographic Information System, it has been determined that the urban growth of the peninsula increased by 11.36% between 1985 and 2010. Urban growth is mostly concentrated in the coastal areas where 2 houses are densely built. The population is expected to increase approximately six times between 2010 and 2060. The amount of drinking and potable water required according to the population projection is 12.38, 26.50, 69.12, and 109.50 hm3/year for 2010, 2030, 2050, and 2060 respectively. The existing water resources of the peninsula will be able to meet the requirements until 2030. In order to meet the water needs of the peninsula until 2055, the Bozalan and Gökçeler dams located nearby as well as the Namnam dam located at mid-range to the peninsular should be built. It is not possible to meet the water needs of the peninsula in 2060 with just the near and medium distance water resources. However, by supplying water from the Akköprü dam located at a further distance, it is possible that 2060 water needs can be met.