Ban on entry to forest areas in Ankara extended until October 15

The Ankara Governor's Office has extended the duration of the ban on entry to forest areas and other preventive measures implemented across the province against the risk of forest fires until October 15, 2026. The ban, which was previously announced to be in effect until September 30, 2026, has been revised due to hot weather and adverse climatic conditions.

In the statement from the Governor's Office, it was noted that the risk of fire has reached its highest level, and it was stated that a significant portion of the fires occurring across the province stems from human-caused negligence in rural areas near forests. Fires lit for stubble burning as well as vineyard and garden cleaning were also listed among the risk factors.

Within the scope of the new measures, lighting fires for any reason in agricultural lands, fields, vineyards, gardens, and all open areas adjacent to forests has been prohibited. It was reported that activities that could cause fires have also been included in the scope of the ban.

Rural areas and forest peripheries that carry a fire risk will be monitored continuously by law enforcement, forest protection teams, and relevant institutions. Neighborhood headmen (muhtars) will also monitor individuals lighting fires in their areas of responsibility and report any detected violations to law enforcement units.

The Governor's Office announced that judicial and administrative proceedings will be initiated against those who do not comply with the measures, and that potential damages and administrative costs will be collected from those responsible. Public institutions, the private sector, and industrial organizations were also called upon to take necessary precautions in their own areas of responsibility.