A significant initiative aimed at modernising Northern Cyprus's infrastructure has garnered unanimous approval from the Republican Assembly's Traffic and Transportation Services Commission. This comprehensive Public Transport Master Plan is designed to tackle the growing reliance on private vehicles, a trend imposing considerable economic and environmental burdens. The plan, presented to municipal mayors and subsequently to the commission, aims to revolutionise public transportation and address the current deficiencies in available services.
The core objective is to reduce the pervasive issue of individual car ownership, which has demonstrably increased due to inadequate public transit options. Minister of Public Works and Transportation, Erhan Arıklı, highlighted the substantial financial implications, stating that approximately $680 million is spent annually on private transportation needs. He emphasised the critical importance of implementing the new plan to address this fiscal drain effectively. The need for this transformation is underscored by the alarming influx of new vehicles, with an average of 3,000 cars entering circulation each month, pushing the existing transportation system towards an unsustainable point.
Spearheaded by Bekir Ilıcalı, Chairman of the Board of Düzce Ulaşım A.Ş., the plan meticulously details technical aspects and sets ambitious implementation goals. Beyond the overarching public transport strategy, the commission also resolved to update roundabout signage and re-evaluate vehicle distance regulations. These measures are intended to improve road safety and optimise traffic flow for all road users.
Minister Arıklı affirmed the government's dedication to an inclusive process, promising extensive consultations with all stakeholders. This collaborative approach is essential for a plan with such far-reaching implications for daily commutes and urban development. The underlying principle is to cultivate a more sustainable and economically sound transportation framework, shifting focus from individual mobility to an integrated public transit network. This pivotal approval marks a crucial step towards enhancing public transportation infrastructure and service quality in Northern Cyprus, aiming to curb economic losses and manage vehicular density more effectively.