Free Transit Cards for Ages 65 and Over Are Available Again! During the coronavirus outbreak, a curfew was imposed for citizens aged 65 and older. After months of fighting the pandemic, normalization measures have finally begun. As part of this process, restrictions were eased and people aged 65 and over are now permitted to go outside during designated hours. Ankara Metropolitan Municipality has announced that the free transportation cards provided to citizens aged 65 and over have been reactivated.
Across Turkey, restrictions were implemented for those aged 65 and over and for those 20 and under to control the spread of the coronavirus. As normalization steps began after months of restrictions, the curfew for people under 20 was completely lifted. Following that change, a new arrangement was introduced for citizens aged 65 and over. Those aged 65 and above are now allowed outdoors every day between 10:00 and 20:00.
You Can Use Your Free Cards Again!
You Can Use Your Free Cards Again! Mansur Yavaş, Mayor of Ankara Metropolitan Municipality, provided the following statement on the matter: “Dear fellow citizens, the temporary suspension of free public transportation for our citizens aged 65 and over due to the pandemic has been lifted and the service has resumed. In the new normalization period, you can use your free cards between 10:00 and 20:00.”
The reactivation of the free transit card program aims to support older residents while keeping public health measures in mind. Authorities continue to encourage mask-wearing, hand hygiene and social distancing when using public transport. Riders aged 65 and over should follow the municipal guidelines and the specified hours to ensure a safer travel environment for everyone.
Ankara’s decision to restore the free card service aligns with broader efforts to return to regular city life while gradually easing pandemic-related restrictions. Residents are advised to stay informed about any future changes from official municipal announcements, and to respect the recommended precautions to reduce transmission risk.
By re-enabling free transportation cards for seniors, the municipality seeks to balance the need for mobility and social participation with ongoing public health concerns. This measure provides older adults with the opportunity to access essential services, attend appointments, and manage daily tasks within the allowed time window, while municipal authorities monitor conditions and adjust policies as needed.