Governor Gül Addresses Journalists’ Questions in Istanbul
On September 25, 2023, Istanbul Governor Davut Gül held a media meeting at Sepetçiler Kasrı, addressing issues relevant to the city. The event included various local officials and media representatives, highlighting government efforts in providing services and addressing pressing challenges in Istanbul.
Governor Gül: Istanbul is Not Facing a Water Crisis
During the meeting, Governor Gül reaffirmed that Istanbul is not experiencing a water crisis. He emphasized the importance of efficient water usage and underlined that the city receives water from sources located hundreds of kilometers away. He stated, “We must use water efficiently; there is currently no water crisis in Istanbul.”
According to Gül, the reliable water supply is a result of long-term planning and infrastructure development, including the Melen Water Project that brought water to the city. He acknowledged that, without this infrastructure, Istanbul could face water shortages if normal supply measures were not in place.
Addressing the Issue of Stray Animals
Governor Gül also discussed the ongoing issues related to stray animals in Istanbul. He assured that all municipalities must comply with legal requirements to ensure these animals are safely collected and sheltered. “No municipality can excuse itself by saying there is no place to take these animals,” he stated.
- All municipalities in Istanbul have access to designated areas for stray animals.
- The recent legal framework mandates the collection and proper housing of these animals.
Combatting Illegal Immigration
In response to questions about illegal immigration, Gül revealed that nearly one million foreigners live in Istanbul. He stressed the difference between illegality and registered residency. “Our focus is on combating illegal immigration, not foreigners themselves. We support those who contribute positively to our city,” he said.
He highlighted the role of mobile migration units that have been active for the past two and a half years, ensuring that those residing in the city are registered and compliant with immigration laws.
Traffic Regulations for Motorcycles
Addressing the rising number of motorcycles in Istanbul, Gül acknowledged the need for stricter regulations. He noted that existing traffic rules must be enforced more effectively to ensure safety and order on the roads. He stated, “We need to establish clear rules for motorcycles to avoid misuse of public spaces.”
Governor Gül’s meeting underscored his commitment to tackling vital issues facing Istanbul while promoting transparency and cooperation with media representatives. His remarks reflect an ongoing effort to engage with the community and implement strategies for sustainable urban management.
