CHP Party Assembly Member and Kocaeli Deputy Tahsin Tarhan asked the Ministry of Transport why the Ada Ekpresi between Adapazarı-Istanbul provinces did not come for a long time. Commenting on the response, Tarhan claimed that the Train was deliberately left out of operation.
Ministry Cites Pandemic as Reason for Suspension of Ada Express Flights
Adapazarı-Istanbul line, which has been operating since 1899, was temporarily terminated on February 1, 2012, on the basis of the YHT (High Speed Train) road construction works. Ada Express Train, which carries passengers intensively between Sakarya, Kocaeli and Istanbul cities, started its operations again on 15.03.2019. However, Island Express flights were stopped again due to the pandemic. CHP Kocaeli Deputy Tahsin Tarhan gave a parliamentary question to the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Adil Karaismailoğlu on this issue.
Upon the response from the Ministry, Tarhan said: “From 2012 to 2019, this line, which was used extensively by the citizens for a long time, was not operated due to road construction work. With the resumption of operations in 2019, it was thought that the problem was solved. However, on March 28, the activity of this line was stopped again. When we asked the ministry the reason for this, he cited the Covid-19 pandemic process in response.
Pandemi Excuse, Cancel Train Flights
The Ministry stated that as of May 28, 2020, with the start of the normalization process, the YHT passenger train services were started in the first stage in accordance with the limited number of seats and determined health rules. CHP employee Tarhan: “TCDD Taşımacılık A.Ş. Why is Adapazarı Regional Express train service not provided when High Speed Train services are made using the same line with Ada Express operated by the General Directorate? When we ask the Ministry, he shows the reason for this as a pandemic. However, High Speed Trains are working. Likewise, bus services continue between these provinces. Does the pandemic outbreak affect only the Island Express train? While other transportation alternatives here continue actively, this voyage not continuing raises questions. The continuation of the High Speed Train services and the fact that the Ada Express does not continue, indicates that this expedition has been deliberately excluded.
Citizens' Right to Safe and Cheap Transport is Seized
CHP Party Assembly Member and Kocaeli Deputy Tahsin Tarhan: “Ada Express has a historical process dating back to 1899. It has served citizens in Sakarya, Kocaeli and Istanbul for many years. Besides, the most reliable and cheapest journey is by train. As a result of the cancellation of the Ada Express Train service; The citizens' right to use the train, which is an alternative means of transportation, and the right to travel in a safer and more affordable way are prevented and usurped. From here, our call is to solve this problem of the citizen and to continue the activity of the Island Express Train, which has a historical meaning like other train services in accordance with the conditions of the pandemic. Safe and affordable transportation is a fundamental right. I invite the Ministry to show sensitivity in this regard in favor of the citizen! "
Be the first to comment