METU students protest Ankara road project resumption

Protests have erupted at Middle East Technical University (METU) following the resumption of construction on the Bilkent-İncek Road Project by the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality (ABB). Students have established a vigil at the site, arguing that the road will cause ecological destruction to Ankara’s remaining forest and fail to solve traffic issues. Protesters also alleged that the project serves real estate interests.

In response to the demonstrations, ABB officials stated that the road plan was prepared and approved by the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, rather than the municipality itself. ABB noted that while they filed legal objections, the Council of State rejected them, making the decision final. The municipality emphasized that failing to implement the Ministry’s approved plan could result in legal and administrative liability for public officials.

During the second day of protests, students reported a dangerous incident where an ABB vehicle was driven toward them during a press statement. Despite the confrontation, students maintained their presence at the site, calling on civil society organizations and unions to support their resistance against the project.