Parking fees in Istanbul are competing with house rents

In central districts where the parking shortage is most acute in Istanbul, parking fees are burning a hole in people's pockets. Those who choose to drive to locations such as Beşiktaş, Şişli, and Kadıköy have to contend with not only heavy traffic but also high parking costs.

According to a report by NTV, the price hikes implemented with the new year have led to remarkable increases, especially in monthly parking subscriptions. In some neighborhoods, subscription fees have surpassed the cost of house rents in the same areas.

DAILY FEE EXCEEDS ONE THOUSAND LIRA

Even at municipal İSPARK locations, hourly parking fees start at 120 lira, while the daily rate can exceed one thousand lira. Citizens who prefer monthly subscriptions are facing payments of up to 20 thousand lira at some parking lots.

Yet, it is still possible to rent a 2+1 apartment in various neighborhoods of the city for 20 thousand lira or less. Despite this, many private parking lots charge additional fees for larger vehicles. A similar picture is seen in districts where parking problems are intense, particularly in Bakırköy.

PRICES ARE LIMITED IN MUNICIPAL LOTS, BUT THERE IS NO SPACE

Prices are kept within a certain limit in the İSPARK areas belonging to the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality and in parking lots operated by district municipalities. It is noted that these areas are approximately half the price compared to private businesses. However, it is almost impossible to find a vacant spot in these affordable parking lots.

Citizens are demanding that the price ceiling applied in municipal parking lots be made valid for private parking lots as well, calling for regulations to be put in place against the rising costs.

News Source: 12punto