Major metro stations in Istanbul to be closed following ban on March 8 celebrations in Taksim

Several metro stations in Istanbul will be temporarily closed starting Saturday at 2 p.m., following a decision by the Istanbul Governorship.

Metro and funicular services affected

According to an announcement from Metro Istanbul’s official social media account, the following stations will be closed until further notice:

• M2 Yenikapi-Haciosman Metro Line: Taksim Station and Sishane Station’s Istiklal Street entrance
• F1 Taksim-Kabatas Funicular Line: Entirely closed

“In accordance with the decision taken by the Istanbul Governorship, as of 14:00 on Saturday, March 8, until further notice, the Taksim station of our M2 Yenikapi-Haciosman Metro Line, the Istiklal Street entrance of Sishane station and our F1 Taksim-Kabatas Funicular Line will be closed to operation,” the statement read.

“Our vehicles will not stop at Taksim station and will continue their service”, the statement added.

Commuters urged to plan ahead

Authorities have not provided a specific reopening time for the affected stations. Passengers are advised to check for updates on Metro Istanbul’s official channels before planning their journeys.

The closure will likely affect thousands of daily commuters and tourists in the area, particularly around Istiklal Street, one of the city’s busiest pedestrian avenues. Further announcements regarding the situation are expected.