Transportation alarm in Istanbul: Private public buses to stop service on May 22

A critical development concerning public transportation in Istanbul has occurred. Owners of private public buses operating under IETT have decided to stop service, citing months of unpaid dues from the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB). It has been announced that a total of 3,041 private public buses will not operate starting Thursday, May 22.

Göksel Ovacık, President of the Istanbul Private Public Bus Tradesmen's Chamber, stated in his announcement that they are owed approximately 5 billion TL by the IBB. Ovacık noted that a payment of 500 million TL, which was promised to be made by May 15, was not fulfilled.

"WE ARE AT THE POINT WHERE THE KNIFE HAS HIT THE BONE"

Stating that they cannot purchase fuel or pay staff salaries due to the lack of payments, Ovacık said, "It is not possible for us to continue transportation services under these conditions. We have decided to stop services as of Thursday. We are announcing this in advance so that this decision does not victimize the people of Istanbul."

POSTPONED AFTER THE EARTHQUAKE

The tradesmen had previously made a similar decision on April 24, but suspended it following the 6.2 magnitude earthquake that occurred off the coast of Silivri on April 23. However, as the promises made were not kept, the decision will be implemented this time.

IBB'S APPROACH WILL DETERMINE THE PROCESS

Emphasizing that how the upcoming process will unfold depends on the IBB's approach, Göksel Ovacık said, "The attitude the municipality displays during this process will determine the path we take. Our goal is not to escalate the crisis, but to find a solution."

News Source: 12punto