Istanbul Took Immediate Measures for Public Transportation! Following the normalization measures after the coronavirus outbreak, and due to violations of the rules observed across public transport in Istanbul, the Governorship convened an emergency meeting. After this meeting, urgent steps were taken across Istanbul in response to scenes that risked undermining efforts against the coronavirus. It was announced that administrative fines will be imposed on citizens who do not comply with the specified measures.
As the nationwide normalization process continued in Turkey during the fight against the coronavirus, passengers in public transport were observed violating basic rules meant to prevent the spread of the virus. In response to the situations emerging across Istanbul, emergency action plans were prepared. Important decisions were made following a meeting attended by Istanbul officials. Based on the recommendations of the Scientific Board, the Circular from the Ministry of Interior, and evaluations by the Istanbul Public Transport Scientific Board and the Istanbul Public Transport Support Commission, the following decisions were taken.
Administrative Fines Will Be Imposed on Those Who Do Not Comply with the Decisions
Administrative Fines Will Be Imposed on Those Who Do Not Comply with the Decisions. Due to unexpected scenes observed during Istanbul’s fight against the coronavirus, authorities convened an emergency meeting and issued several decisions. The measures decided after the meeting are listed below.
- For buses and metrobuses that carry standing passengers, the number of passengers allowed will be equal to the number of seated passengers plus up to one-third of the standing passenger capacity.
- Floor markings will be applied inside vehicles to prevent close contact among standing passengers.
- If vehicle capacity is reached, drivers must not pick up additional passengers.
- If passengers insist on boarding despite capacity limits, law enforcement will be notified before the vehicle departs.
- On metro and rail systems, all seated seats may be occupied, while up to 50% of the standing passenger capacity will be allowed.
- On municipal ferries and sea buses, passenger numbers will be limited to the seated passenger capacity.
- All vehicles must carry liquid hand sanitizer on board.
- Vehicles will be disinfected daily before services begin, and additionally between runs when necessary.
- Markings will be placed at stops to ensure social distancing is maintained.
- Those who do not comply with the rules outlined above will face administrative fines under Article 282 of the Public Health Law; behaviors that constitute a criminal offense will be prosecuted under Article 195 of the Turkish Penal Code.