Turkey announces free public transit for Republic Day celebrations

In observance of the 103rd anniversary of Republic Day, a presidential decree has mandated free transit on several major rail lines across Turkey on Thursday, October 29, 2026.

Free services will be available on the Marmaray line connecting Istanbul's European and Asian sides, the Sirkeci-Kazlıçeşme rail line, and the Gayrettepe-Istanbul Airport-Halkalı metro line. In Ankara, the Başkentray suburban line will offer free travel, while İzmir's İZBAN suburban system will also participate in the free transit initiative.

In Elazığ, local authorities have announced a series of commemorative events including a wreath-laying ceremony, a reception by Governor Numan Hatipoğlu, and a lantern procession starting from 15 Temmuz Square. Due to rehearsals for these celebrations, certain roads near the Old Teachers' House and surrounding streets will be closed to vehicle traffic on Monday, October 26, between 08:30 and 11:30.