MANİSA (AA) - AHMET BAYRAM/KAMİL ALTIPARMAK - The geothermal greenhouse project to be implemented in Manisa's Kula district with a state investment of 95 million liras will provide 150 jobs in the first stage and produce 2 thousand tons of tomatoes annually.

A geothermal greenhouse project is being implemented on an area of 135 thousand square meters in cooperation with Zafer Development Agency, Ministry of Industry and Technology, Ministry of Youth and Sports and Kula Municipality in order to utilize the heat water resources with high potential near Şehitlioğlu Neighborhood.

It is aimed to start production after 4 months with the work that will set an example for the farmers in the region on greenhouse farming and the use of thermal resources.

The geothermal greenhouse, which will be established with an investment of approximately 95 million TL, will offer 2 thousand tons of tomatoes to the domestic and international market annually.

Kula Mayor Hüseyin Tosun told AA correspondent that they aim to utilize the potential of the region with rich heat water resources.

Pointing out how the project will add value to the region, Tosun said that the greenhouse will be an example for the agriculture of the region and in this sense, they expect similar investments in the coming years. Emphasizing that the geothermal water of Kula has been flowing down the drain for years, Tosun said: "We initiated a study as Zafer Development Agency, Ministry of Industry and Technology, Ministry of Youth and Sports and Kula Municipality to utilize the thermal water. Within the scope of this study, we have begun the installation of a soilless technological greenhouse on an area of 50 acres. This is a place of approximately 135 acres. We have carried out serious excavation work here and we have come to an end. This place will be completely finished in about 4 months, after which it will serve Turkish agriculture."

Tosun noted that the greenhouse to be operated by the municipality will make a great contribution to the district and the residents of the region.

Explaining that approximately 150 people will be employed in the first stage, Tosun said, "Hopefully, our farmers in the region will initiate the greenhouse installation by getting acquainted with soilless agriculture. When the greenhouse reaches full capacity, it will make a significant contribution to the economy by producing 2 thousand tons of tomatoes annually."

Source: Anadolu Ajansı