ISTANBUL- Faezeh Azizi✍️
As Turkey prepares to mark Labor and Solidarity Day on May 1, Istanbul Governor Davut Gül has emphasized the importance of maintaining public safety and order, warning against unauthorized gatherings in the city’s central districts.
In a statement released on social media, Governor Gül noted that official permits have been granted to two labor confederations for demonstrations in Kadıköy and Kartal. However, he cautioned that calls to gather in Taksim Square are not celebratory, but “provocative attempts to incite conflict with security forces.”
“To our valued citizens, our message is clear: please disregard unlawful calls that threaten public order,” the governor stated.
In preparation for the day, city authorities are removing potential street obstacles—including trash bins and vendor stalls—along main routes. Police units will be deployed across Istanbul to ensure order and prevent disruptions.
Significant traffic and public transport changes will be in effect. Road closures will begin at 5 a.m. in key districts including Fatih, Beyoğlu, and Kadıköy. Metro stations such as Yenikapı and Şişli will be temporarily closed, while some bus and ferry services will be altered or suspended. The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality has urged residents to avoid private vehicles and expect delays.
Security measures will be particularly tight in districts where demonstrations have been banned, including Beyoğlu, Beşiktaş, Şişli, and Fatih. Authorities stress that respecting designated protest zones is essential to ensuring a peaceful May 1 for all.
Istanbul Gears Up for May 1: Authorities Urge Peace, Restrict Access to Taksim
As Turkey prepares to mark Labor and Solidarity Day on May 1, Istanbul Governor Davut Gül has emphasized the importance of maintaining public safety and order, warning against unauthorized gatherings in the city’s central districts.
In a statement released on social media, Governor Gül noted that official permits have been granted to two labor confederations for demonstrations in Kadıköy and Kartal. However, he cautioned that calls to gather in Taksim Square are not celebratory, but “provocative attempts to incite conflict with security forces.”
“To our valued citizens, our message is clear: please disregard unlawful calls that threaten public order,” the governor stated.
In preparation for the day, city authorities are removing potential street obstacles—including trash bins and vendor stalls—along main routes. Police units will be deployed across Istanbul to ensure order and prevent disruptions.
Significant traffic and public transport changes will be in effect. Road closures will begin at 5 a.m. in key districts including Fatih, Beyoğlu, and Kadıköy. Metro stations such as Yenikapı and Şişli will be temporarily closed, while some bus and ferry services will be altered or suspended. The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality has urged residents to avoid private vehicles and expect delays. 
Security measures will be particularly tight in districts where demonstrations have been banned, including Beyoğlu, Beşiktaş, Şişli, and Fatih. Authorities stress that respecting designated protest zones is essential to ensuring a peaceful May 1 for all.
