Private Public Buses Affiliated with IETT to Stop Contactless Payments on October 15 – Latest News from Turkey
Private Public Bus Owners Protest Non-Payment of Receivables in Istanbul
A large group of private public bus owners affiliated with IETT gathered in Saraçhane to protest the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) for not paying their dues. The vehicle owners, carrying banners and placards, expressed their frustration over the delayed payments which have put them in a financial crisis.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Private Public Bus Platform spokesperson Erhan Güneş criticized the rotation policies implemented by IETT, stating that they cause frequent breakdowns of vehicles and disrupt their business operations. Güneş highlighted that the non-payment of receivables has exceeded 2 million liras, despite promises made by the authorities.
Due to the dire situation, Güneş announced that they have decided to close the contract on October 15, 2024, as they are unable to continue operating under such conditions. The group demanded immediate payment of their dues and asked for support from the people of Istanbul.
Following the statement, the group broke through police barriers and blocked the 15 July Martyrs Street, causing a 45-minute road closure. Police teams intervened and urged the group to disperse, but they continue to wait in front of the building.
The protest reflects the frustration and financial difficulties faced by private public bus owners in Istanbul, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution to this ongoing issue.
