Breaking development in Istanbul against the coronavirus: a new measure has been implemented. Several squares and streets in Istanbul have been closed to pedestrian traffic due to COVID-19. According to the decision, six busy streets and two major squares, including Bağcılar Square and Güneşli Square, have been closed to pedestrians. Authorities found that social distancing could not be maintained in these areas because of excessive crowding.
Bağcılar Square, Güneşli Square and six busy streets in Istanbul have been closed to pedestrian traffic for a 15-day period. The restriction is scheduled to begin on April 10, 2020 at 17:00 and end on April 24, 2020 at 24:00. Teams from the Bağcılar Municipality Police Department and the regular police stationed at the street entrances are not allowing pedestrian entry or exit.
Which Places in Istanbul Are Closed to Pedestrian Traffic?
To slow the rapid spread of the coronavirus, the local authorities in Bağcılar have taken extra precautions and closed several streets and squares to pedestrians. According to the Bağcılar Municipality’s decision, the locations closed to pedestrian traffic are listed below.
- Bağcılar Square
- Güneşli Square
- Kirazlı Street, Güneşli Neighborhood
- Menderes Street, Hürriyet Neighborhood
- Eski Pazar Street, Fatih Neighborhood
- 628th Street, Yenigün Neighborhood
- Çarşı Street, Sancaktepe Neighborhood
- Ahmet Kabaklı Street, Kirazlı Neighborhood – Yenimahalle
As a result of the decision, all of the streets, neighborhoods and squares listed above will be closed to pedestrian traffic for 15 days. Exceptions apply for business owners with permits, transit passengers, and people who must pass through the area to meet essential needs. Citizens who fail to comply with the measures may face penalties under public health law. After the decision was announced, entrances and exits to the squares and streets were blocked with barriers and are being monitored by police and municipal enforcement teams.