Martı, one of Turkey's leading mobility apps, has announced its plan to build dedicated scooter parking lots in coordination with the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB). The company has been working with IBB's Transportation Department Head for the past two months to bring this project to fruition.
In a statement, Martı said that scooters have become an indispensable mode of transportation in Istanbul, regulated by the relevant articles of the Highway Traffic Law and the Municipal Revenues Law. In an effort to better integrate scooters into urban life, the company has agreed with IBB to build 100, and then 500 "Scooter and Bicycle Parking Lots" at points to be determined by IBB.
The municipality will offer a 20% discount on rides from vehicles parked in these designated areas, and will work to expand bicycle and pedestrian paths, and widen sidewalks to make it easier to use scooters. Martı emphasized its commitment to working with public institutions to make cities more environmentally friendly and reduce the use of personal cars.
E-scooters have become increasingly popular in European cities, however, they are facing challenges due to gaps in laws and infrastructure development. In Paris, a referendum will be held in April to determine whether e-scooters will continue to be allowed in the city.
While e-scooters are considered a fast, environmentally-friendly alternative to cars and public transport, there is a clear need for regulations on their usage. Martı's partnership with IBB is a step towards addressing these issues and providing a safe and convenient means of transportation for the citizens of Istanbul.
