New era for Istanbul traffic: Paid entry to Eminonu, Kadikoy
A crowd is seen at Eminonu street in Istanbul, Türkiye, Feb. 15, 2024. (AA Photo)
In a bid to ease the growing traffic problem, paid entry will be introduced for vehicles entering certain areas of Eminonu and Kadikoy in Istanbul.
According to a report by Sputnik, as part of the “Istanbul Sustainable Urban Mobility Planning (SUMP),” measures are being implemented to address Istanbul’s traffic woes.
One of these measures is the “Congestion Pricing” system, which will require vehicle owners to pay an entry fee for specific areas. Eminonu has been selected as the first implementation area, with Kadikoy to follow as part of the pilot project.
Reducing traffic congestion by 10% by 2030
The plan aims to introduce several innovative solutions to reduce traffic congestion:
- By 2030, traffic density during peak hours is expected to decrease by 10.1%, with a further reduction of 12.8% projected by 2040.
- The “Low Emission Zones (LEZ)” policy will charge additional fees for vehicles that harm the environment more.
- Measures such as increasing sea transport and bus-priority lanes will promote eco-friendly transportation.
Ekrem Imamoglu, the Mayor of Istanbul, emphasized that the plan is Türkiye’s first sustainable urban mobility plan and includes solutions to encourage environmentally friendly transportation.
Eminonu, Kadikoy selected as pilot areas
Eminonu, covering approximately 6 square kilometers, has been chosen as the first area to implement the system. Kadikoy’s Moda district will be the next to join the initiative.
Under the “Low Emission Zone” policy, higher fees will be charged to vehicles that cause more environmental damage, while eco-friendly vehicles will benefit from lower tariffs.
Istanbul traffic data: Losing 104 hours annually
According to the TomTom Traffic Index, Istanbul ranks 65th globally in terms of traffic congestion. Key data reveals:
- Average travel speed: 23 km/h
- Annual time lost in traffic: 104 hours
- Average 10 km travel time: 20 minutes 40 seconds
Besides Istanbul, cities like Gaziantep and Ankara also face notable traffic congestion.
Impact of paid entry on public transport usage
Professor Ayse Uyduranoglu from Istanbul Bilgi University’s Department of Economics highlighted that similar systems have been successfully implemented in cities like London, Stockholm, and Milan.
Uyduranoglu noted that in some cities, congestion decreased by up to 40%, while public transport usage increased by 5-10%.
Key recommendations for a successful pilot
For the system to function effectively, Uyduranoglu suggested that:
- The results of pilot projects should be shared transparently.
- Low tariffs should be applied to environmentally friendly vehicles.
- Public opinion should be consulted through methods like referendums to ensure broad support.
Innovative approaches to Istanbul’s traffic problem
Depending on the results of the pilot project, the paid entry system may be expanded to other areas of Istanbul.
Experts argue that such measures can significantly reduce air pollution and carbon emissions.
Global examples of congestion pricing systems
Many cities worldwide have successfully implemented paid vehicle entry systems to reduce traffic congestion and protect the environment.
London, Stockholm, Milan, and Singapore are just a few examples of cities where this system has proven effective.
Paid vehicle entry: What is it and why is it implemented?
Paid vehicle entry systems are designed to reduce traffic congestion, fight air pollution, and promote eco-friendly transportation.
By regulating vehicle traffic, these systems aim to encourage public transport usage and increase the adoption of environmentally friendly vehicles.
International success stories of paid entry systems
London: Bold step against traffic
London introduced the “Congestion Charge” in 2003, requiring drivers to pay a daily fee of 15 pounds to enter the busiest areas of the city. As a result, traffic congestion dropped by 20%, while public transport usage saw a significant increase.
Stockholm: Public vote for success
Stockholm’s paid entry system was introduced in 2007 following a referendum in which the public supported the initiative. The system reduced air pollution by 14% and traffic congestion by 20%.
Milan: Encouraging eco-friendly vehicles
In 2012, Milan implemented the “Area C” system, charging fossil fuel-powered vehicles 5 euros to enter the city center. Electric and hybrid vehicles are exempt from the fee. This system has significantly reduced carbon emissions.
Singapore: First to implement paid entry
Singapore pioneered paid vehicle entry systems in 1975 with the “ERP (Electronic Road Pricing)” system. Using dynamic pricing, vehicles entering the city center during peak hours are charged, resulting in a substantial reduction in both traffic and air pollution.
New York: First US city to implement paid entry
In 2021, New York became the first U.S. city to implement paid vehicle entry in Manhattan. Drivers are charged between $9 and $23 daily, aiming to reduce traffic and boost public transport usage.
Which cities have successfully implemented paid vehicle entry?
- London: Traffic decreased by 20%, and public transport use surged.
- Stockholm: The system, supported by a public referendum, reduced air pollution by 14%.
- Milan: Eco-friendly vehicles benefit from exemptions, leading to reduced carbon emissions.
- Singapore: Dynamic pricing drastically reduced both traffic and pollution.
- New York: Daily fees have helped manage Manhattan’s traffic congestion.
As Istanbul embarks on this new journey with its paid entry system, the eyes of the world will be on the city to see if this initiative can successfully ease the traffic woes while promoting sustainability.
