Will Bridges Be Free on May 19? Are Highways Free on May 19?

As Turkey celebrates May 19 Atatürk Commemoration, Youth and Sports Day, a familiar measure brings relief to travelers: the free passage on select bridges and highways. Cumhuriyet's report details which routes will be toll-free, a move that typically garners appreciation from citizens, especially those undertaking holiday travel or commuting in major urban centers like Istanbul. The inclusion of the iconic Bosphorus and Fatih Sultan Mehmet bridges under this holiday exemption is a significant aspect, facilitating movement between the European and Asian sides of the city.

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During the holiday, crossings on many bridges and highways under the responsibility of the General Directorate of Highways (KGM) will be free.

The distinction between state-managed and privately operated infrastructure is crucial in understanding the scope of this holiday benefit. While General Directorate of Highways (KGM) routes are made free, privately operated crossings such as the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge, Osmangazi Bridge, and the 1915 Çanakkale Bridge, along with the Eurasia Tunnel and Northern Marmara Motorway, continue to charge tolls. This differentiation reflects Turkey's evolving infrastructure landscape, where public-private partnerships play a substantial role in development and operation.

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The 15 July Martyrs Bridge and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge (FSM) in Istanbul will be open for free passage throughout the day.

For the Turkish public, these holiday toll exemptions are more than just a cost-saving measure; they are a symbolic gesture tied to national holidays, commemorating Atatürk and the nation's youth. The decision to offer free passage on these key arteries underscores the government's recognition of the holiday's significance and its desire to allow citizens to celebrate and travel with greater ease. The reporting by Cumhuriyet focuses on providing clear, practical information to help citizens plan their journeys, highlighting the specific bridges and roads affected by the toll-free policy.

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Additionally, drivers will not be charged any fees on public routes operated by KGM, such as the European Motorway and Anatolian Motorway.