Istanbul’s Taxi Revolution: 73% Increase in Vehicles to Improve Service

Istanbul, a city of over 16 million, is undergoing a taxi revolution to improve its notoriously inadequate service. The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) has approved a proposal to increase the number of taxis by a whopping 73%, aiming to ensure a taxi for every 500 residents. Currently, there is one taxi for every 861 residents, lagging behind major cities like Mexico City, Paris, and London. The plan includes a new app-based taxi service, ‘Taxi Transportation System’, that will launch with 2,500 vehicles and offer improved quality and safety features. New taxis will have a protective barrier for drivers and will be ordered via mobile applications or designated taxi stands, eliminating the need for traditional taxi signs. The city also plans to implement stricter licensing regulations with 5-year licenses and require taxi operators to join licensed mobile apps. This comprehensive overhaul aims to address long-standing complaints about taxi services and provide a better experience for Istanbul’s residents.