TCDD Launches University Study After 52 Storks Killed by Electrocution in Küçükçekmece

Turkey's State Railways (TCDD) has launched a joint scientific initiative with relevant institutions and universities following the deaths of 52 storks that struck railway electrification infrastructure at Küçükçekmece Lake-Tahtakale in Istanbul's Küçükçekmece district. Five additional storks that were injured have been placed under care. TCDD announced the study aims to prevent such fatalities from occurring again.

Küçükçekmece Lake is recognized as a critical stopover and transit point along the stork migration corridor that extends from Europe through Africa. Within the scope of the planned work, TCDD stated that the migration routes and flight behavior of storks will be examined in detail. Based on findings obtained from universities, the renewal of protective systems on electrification lines in the region is being planned.

TCDD also noted that existing protective measures in the area have been increased, while field surveys continue around Küçükçekmece Lake. The goal is to implement permanent bird safety measures at critical infrastructure points along the migration route.