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Authorities in Istanbul's central Beyoglu district, home to Taksim Square, Galata Tower and the district's main pedestrian avenue, Istiklal Street, banned all public gatherings for 24 hours starting early Sunday, June 28.
The Beyoglu governor's office said Saturday that the ban was imposed after calls circulated on social media for people to gather for a possible demonstration in the district on Sunday.
The order covers all assemblies, marches, press statements, leaflet distribution, sit-ins and similar events in open areas across the district from 12:01 a.m. Istanbul time Sunday, the statement said.
Authorities said the decision was taken under Türkiye's Law on Meetings and Demonstrations and the Provincial Administration Law after planned gatherings were assessed as posing a risk to public order and social peace.
Security measures will begin at 10 a.m. Sunday, with access restrictions planned around Taksim Square, the Republic Monument, Gezi Park, Istiklal Avenue, Tunnel Square and Karakoy Square.
The statement said barriers would be placed around Taksim Square, Gezi Park, Istiklal Avenue and nearby side streets, while vehicle and pedestrian access would be closed or controlled if necessary.
Restrictions will also apply to Mete Street, Gumussuyu Street, Siraselviler Street, Billurcu Street, Meselik Street, Divan Junction, Kazanci Slope, Balo Street, Yeni Carsi Street, Sishane Square, Firuzaga Square and surrounding side streets.
The governor's office said additional roads and pedestrian routes across the district could also be closed if deemed necessary because of possible public incidents during the day.
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