Istanbul residents to enjoy free public transportation on Victory Day, with Istanbulkart holders benefiting from the 24-hour service.
Residents of Istanbul will have the opportunity to travel across the city for free on August 30, as part of the Victory Day celebrations. The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (İBB) has announced that public transportation services, including buses, metrobuses, trams, metros, and ferries, will be free for all Istanbulkart holders throughout the day.
Victory Day Special
- What’s Free? All public transportation modes integrated with the Istanbulkart system will be available at no cost for a full 24 hours.
- Eligibility: The free service is available to all residents and visitors who hold a personalized Istanbulkart.
Historical Context
This initiative is part of a broader tradition in Istanbul, where public transportation is made free on significant national holidays and religious celebrations. The policy, initiated in 2019 by the İBB, aims to encourage the use of public transportation and make commuting easier during major events.
Benefits of Free Transportation
- Ease of Movement: Residents can move freely across the city without the worry of transportation costs.
- Increased Participation: This move is expected to boost participation in Victory Day events, allowing more people to join in the celebrations without the burden of travel expenses.
- Environmental Impact: By making public transportation free, İBB hopes to reduce the number of private vehicles on the road, leading to lower emissions and less traffic congestion.
Public Awareness
The İBB has emphasized the importance of public awareness regarding this offer. Istanbul residents are encouraged to take advantage of this service and use public transportation to attend Victory Day events, spend time with family, or explore different parts of the city.
A Continued Tradition
Since its implementation in 2019, the free transportation policy on national holidays has become a staple in Istanbul. It not only provides financial relief to residents but also promotes a sense of community by making the city more accessible to everyone. The success of this initiative is evident in the increasing number of people who opt for public transportation during these special days.
As Istanbul prepares for Victory Day, the free transportation offer is a reminder of the city’s commitment to its residents. The İBB continues to work on improving public transportation services and ensuring that the city’s infrastructure can handle the increased demand on such significant days.
With this initiative, Istanbul once again demonstrates its dedication to enhancing the quality of life for its residents, making the city more livable, accessible, and connected.
Source: AA / Prepared by Irem Yildiz