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Several of Türkiye’s busiest intercity and urban rail lines will operate free of charge on January 1, 2026, following a presidential decision published in the Official Gazette.
The decision, signed by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, grants passengers free access to selected rail systems on Thursday, the first day of the new year. The meastransportature applies nationwide and affects routes that serve millions of daily commuters and travelers.
According to the presidential decree, the free service will be valid only on January 1 and only on the specific lines listed in the Official Gazette.
The decision covers five major rail systems that play a key role in urban and regional transportation across Türkiye.
Passengers will be able to use the following lines without charge on January 1, 2026:
The Official Gazette states that citizens will be able to benefit from these services free of charge throughout the day on January 1.
The free transport measure was announced through a presidential decision published in the Official Gazette on December 19. The decision is based on existing legislation that allows public services to be offered free of charge or at a discount on designated dates.
The free rides are expected to ease holiday travel and reduce congestion on New Year’s Day, especially in major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, where the listed rail lines form the backbone of daily transportation.
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