[71871] Turkey prepares for heavy traffic ahead of Eid al-Adha holiday
Record preparations ahead of Eid al-Adha holiday in Turkey
Ahead of the Eid al-Adha holiday, Turkish media channels report heavy congestion on major transportation routes across the country. According to a report by Sputnik Türkiye, heavy traffic has been recorded on transit routes, airports, and major bus terminals, while DoğruHaber notes that traffic jams have already begun to form on the Istanbul-Izmir highway and the Osmangazi Bridge.
Increased enforcement and deployment of forces
The Turkish Ministry of Interior is preparing for the large wave of travelers. According to Sansürsüz Gündem, approximately 334,017 security personnel will be operating nationwide, including 66,000 police officers dedicated to traffic control. The authorities emphasize that the goal is "preventing accidents rather than imposing fines" according to Sansürsüz Gündem.
Regarding enforcement measures, it was reported by TGRT HABER that technological tools such as drones and helicopters will be deployed, and a "plainclothes passenger" procedure inside vehicles will be implemented to enforce traffic violations. At the same time, the Son Dakika Haberler Gündem network updated that "speed trap" systems (tuzak radar) will not be used during the holiday days according to Son Dakika Haberler Gündem.
New safety requirements
Parallel to the state's preparations, the Haber Gündem website reports on a new regulation requiring drivers to have basic emergency equipment in their vehicles, such as pliers, a screwdriver, and a tow rope. According to the report, the absence of these items may lead to fines for vehicle owners. Traffic congestion in the Bolu mountain pass area has already reached a complete standstill in the lane towards Ankara, indicating the volume of traffic expected in the coming days according to Haber Gündem.