Traffic congestion in Istanbul has surged to 83% during the evening rush hour, exacerbated by drivers trying to make it home in time for iftar after leaving work. As the iftar hour approaches, major arteries and streets on the D-100 highway and the TEM Motorway are experiencing heavy traffic.
On the European side, drivers are facing challenges in moving along the D-100 highway towards Edirne in areas like Şirinevler, Çobançeşme, and Cevizlibağ. The traffic congestion persists between Merter, Yenibosna, Çağlayan-Okmeydanı, Mecidiyeköy, and Zincirlikuyu, extending all the way to the July 15 Martyrs Bridge.
Transitions from the European side to the Anatolian side witness congestion on the Eurasia Tunnel route and the coastal road. The traffic starting from the Hasdal Junction on the TEM Motorway continues all the way to the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, with slow progress around Seyrantepe, Maslak, and Kemerburgaz intersections.
On the Anatolian side, traffic originating in Acıbadem on the D-100 highway towards Ankara extends all the way to Kartal, with vehicles moving slowly in the opposite direction towards Kartal, Maltepe, Bostancı, and Kozyatağı. The Ataşehir-Sancaktepe stretch on the TEM Motorway sees congestion in both directions.
Crossing from the Anatolian side to the European side encounters congestion on the July 15 Martyrs Bridge starting from Uzunçayır. However, traffic flows smoothly on the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge and the Eurasia Tunnel.
Those trying to make it home for iftar found themselves waiting at metrobus, bus, and tram transfer stations due to overcrowding. Passengers faced difficulty boarding vehicles at stops, with lines forming at transfer stations like Söğütlüçeşme, Uzunçayır, and Altunizade.
According to data from the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality’s CepTrafik map, traffic congestion in the city has peaked at 83%, with the European side experiencing 85% congestion and the Anatolian side at 81%.
Expert Insights on Istanbul’s Traffic Congestion
Expert traffic analysts have attributed the surge in traffic congestion to a combination of factors, including the end of the workday coinciding with the iftar rush during Ramadan. Dr. Mehmet Yılmaz, a transportation specialist, highlighted the impact of increased private vehicle use during peak hours and the challenges posed by limited public transportation options during the iftar period.
Strategies to Alleviate Traffic Congestion
To address the escalating traffic congestion in Istanbul, urban planners are advocating for a multi-faceted approach that includes promoting alternative modes of transportation, enhancing the capacity of existing public transport systems, and implementing smart traffic management solutions. Initiatives such as carpooling incentives, flexible work hours, and the development of cycling infrastructure are being considered to reduce the reliance on individual vehicles and mitigate traffic congestion in the long run.
As Istanbul grapples with the daily challenges of traffic congestion, stakeholders are working towards sustainable solutions that prioritize efficiency, accessibility, and environmental sustainability to ensure a smoother commute for residents and visitors alike.
