Şehir HatlarıAs October 29, Republic Day, approaches, there's widespread interest in public transport fares. Many are wondering if bus, metro, metrobüs, ferry, Marmaray, and İZBAN services in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir will be free. Details concerning the Republic Day transportation tariff and the lines offering free service continue to be a key topic.
On October 29, Republic Day, free transportation will be available on certain public transport lines. In Istanbul, passengers using a personalized Istanbulkart can travel free on IETT buses, metrobüs, Şehir Hatları ferries, and metro and tram services.
In accordance with the Presidential Decision published in the Official Gazette, transportation on urban rail system lines operated by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure has been made entirely free.
The Ministry-operated lines offering free service throughout October 29 include:
Istanbul: Marmaray, Sirkeci-Kazlıçeşme Rail System Line, Gayrettepe-Istanbul Airport-Halkalı Metro Line.
Ankara: Başkentray.
Izmir: İZBAN (Izmir Suburban System).
Drivers are also curious whether bridge and highway crossings will be free on October 29, Republic Day. Free passage will apply to bridges and highways designated by a Presidential Decision. However, bridges and highways operated under the build-operate-transfer (BOT) model are not included in this free service.