Fethiye Times News – Week Ending 10th May 2026

A group visiting Kayaköy’s forested area in Fethiye canceled a planned short film shoot after discovering significant littering, including adult-related waste. Instead, they filmed a protest video titled *Let’s Not Make Love To Nature*, urging visitors to respect natural spaces and calling for more waste disposal facilities and inspections. Kayaköy, known for its historic charm and natural beauty, faces growing concerns over pollution in picnic and forested areas. The protest follows ongoing environmental advocacy efforts in the region. Local residents and activists have repeatedly highlighted the deterioration of natural spaces due to irresponsible visitor behavior. The group’s video aims to raise awareness and pressure authorities to enforce stricter waste management measures. Separately, Muğla Metropolitan Municipality announced opposition to a proposed 450-yacht pier in Selimiye Bay, Marmaris. Mayor Ahmet Aras stated the municipality would challenge the project through legal channels, citing risks to marine life and the protected coastal zone. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process is underway, but officials argue the area’s ecological significance—including endangered species and tourism value—demands rejection. The pier project, initiated by the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, conflicts with the Aydın-Muğla Coastal Area Plan. Municipal officials emphasize Selimiye Bay’s role as a key marine tourism destination, with swimming areas, day-trip spots, and blue cruise routes. The opposition underscores broader tensions between development and conservation in Turkey’s coastal regions. Meanwhile, Fethiye’s Traffic Week included hands-on road safety training for kindergarten students. Organized by the Fethiye District Police and National Education Directorate, children practiced traffic rules on a simulated track using electric vehicles. Governor Fatih Akkaya attended, stressing the importance of early traffic awareness to prevent accidents.