New Rules for Public Transportation in Istanbul Due to Coronavirus
As the fight against the coronavirus intensifies, cities and countries continue to introduce new measures. In Istanbul, new rules for public transportation have been announced and will take effect on Monday, April 13, 2020. Despite earlier warnings, insufficient compliance with social distancing prompted authorities to implement stricter restrictions and precautions. The Istanbul Governorship confirmed these measures via its official communication and submitted them to the council for approval.
The new public transportation measures adopted by the Istanbul Governorship will come into force on Monday, April 13, 2020 at 05:00. The decisions have been detailed in a set of provisions. The following measures are intended to ensure social distancing and reduce transmission risk on public transport.
What Are the New Public Transportation Rules in Istanbul?
The new rules, which apply across Istanbul and impose fines for non-compliance with public transport regulations, are summarized below.
- All drivers and passengers are required to wear masks. Those without masks will not be allowed to board public transport. Drivers and passengers found not wearing masks will be subject to separate administrative fines.
- Vehicles may carry passengers up to 50% of their seating capacity. To preserve social distancing, more than 50% of seats must not be occupied.
- The number of standing passengers will be limited so it does not exceed the number of seated passengers. In two-seat bench configurations, the aisle-side seats should remain empty and passengers should sit by the window when possible.
- Markings will be placed at stops and inside vehicles to help passengers maintain social distance while waiting or traveling.
- Hand sanitizers (liquid disinfectants) must be available on all public transport vehicles and at stops.
- Violations of these measures will incur administrative fines pursuant to Article 282 of Law No. 1593 on Public Health.
- Relevant authorities will increase the number of services where necessary to maintain social distancing and prevent passenger overcrowding; any schedule changes will be announced to the public.
These measures will be effective starting Monday, April 13, 2020 at 05:00.