2 major changes in Istanbul transportation! Car ferry line to be relocated, new traffic arrangement on Vatan Avenue

Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) is implementing a new transportation plan that prioritizes public transit in the Historical Peninsula. The plan aims to limit the use of private vehicles and create bicycle and pedestrian-friendly areas.

Deputy Secretary General of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pelin Alpkökin, announced two significant changes in the plan.

SIRKECI CAR FERRY PIER IS MOVING TO YENIKAPI

The first of these is the relocation of the Sirkeci pier of the Sirkeci-Harem car ferry line to Yenikapı. This will clear the Sirkeci area of vehicle traffic.

Alpkökin stated, "With the relocation of the pier to Yenikapı, tourist shuttle lines from Sirkeci to the Sultanahmet area will also be put into service." After the move, the area will be used as a drop-off and pick-up point for tour buses.

BUS-PRIORITY LANES ARE BEING INTRODUCED

The second important step of the plan is the implementation of bus-priority lanes. Vatan Avenue has been designated as the pilot region for the first phase.

Alpkökin said, "With the bus-priority lane to be implemented on Vatan Avenue, traffic congestion will decrease and the efficiency of public transportation will increase."

The same application will also be implemented on Fevzipaşa Avenue, and the lane planned there will be integrated with the rail system in Edirnekapı. Work is ongoing.

News Source: 12punto