#Mollakasım Public Beach

"Van's Mollakasım Public Beach welcomes its guests with its Blue Flag

The beach in Mollakasım Neighborhood, located in Tuşba district, is the only Blue Flag beach outside of cities with a coastline, attracting attention with its remarkable beauty. Awarded the Blue Flag for the first time in 2018 based on evaluations of 33 criteria under headings such as environmental education and information, water quality for swimming, environmental management, safety, and services, the beach hosts tourists, vacationers, and city residents every year who stay in summer houses by the lake and in hotels in the city. As the weather warms up, visitors to Mollakasım Public Beach both picnic in designated areas and cool off by swimming in the lake. Akif Güven, the beach operations manager, stated that the beach, which has earned the right to fly the Blue Flag, is one of the most preferred spots for those seeking to cool down in the city. Describing a busy season, Güven said, "The picnic areas are constantly cleaned by staff. Both tourists and city residents show interest in our beach. We had a busy period during the holiday season as well. The picnic area above the beach has pergolas, barbecue sections, playgrounds, showers, a market, and restrooms," he said. Güven continued by saying, "The season has been busier compared to last year. All areas of the beach fill up early in the morning. When there are no pergolas left, people set up the tents they bring. To receive the Blue Flag, 33 criteria must be met. We meet these 33 criteria every year to receive the flag. Factors such as environmental order, cleanliness of the beach, and water play a role here. We ask our guests to help us with this." "SPENDING OUR VACATION HERE IS BETTER" İsa Karadeniz, who visited the beach, noted that having such a place in Van is advantageous for the residents. Karadeniz, who mentioned that they engage in all sorts of activities on the beach, said, "Rather than going on vacation to different cities, it’s better to spend our vacation here. We barbecue and swim. It’s known by everyone as the Van Sea. These areas could be promoted worldwide with more investment," he said. Tugay Acar, who also visits the beach every year, said, "We can spend time here with our family with peace of mind. The beach has everything and is incredibly beautiful. Our citizens should be more mindful and avoid littering. I know all the beaches in the city. This place deserves the Blue Flag due to its features. Everyone must do their part to ensure this continues," he said. 4o