Ankara, June 1 – As part of post-Eid al-Adha holiday measures, the Ankara Police Department conducted extensive air-supported traffic controls on highways within its area of responsibility. The operation, which began before the holiday and continued into the day after its conclusion, aimed to manage the high traffic volume and ensure road safety.
Air Support for Ground Teams
The General Directorate of Security (EGM) continued its traffic inspections in Ankara following the Eid al-Adha holiday. Ground teams received support from helicopters, allowing for immediate intervention in identified problematic situations. High traffic density was observed on the roads during this period.
Chief Commissioner İskender Dolu, from the Ankara Regional Traffic Enforcement Branch Directorate, emphasized the importance of not driving while sleepy or tired. He stated, “Our air-supported operations, using helicopters and drones, allow us to monitor and evaluate traffic flow, dispatch teams to accident sites, and provide information to ground teams regarding violations such as mobile phone use, seat belt non-compliance, and illegal overtaking. This ensures a more effective enforcement of traffic laws.”
Extensive Air Surveillance Across Nine Provinces
Minister of Interior Mustafa Çiftçi provided details on the nationwide air surveillance measures. He announced that helicopters conducted 108 hours of inspections across 9 provinces, while drones were utilized for 5,828 hours in 81 provinces, totaling 5,936 hours of air vehicle surveillance.
The Ankara Governorship further reported that the provincial police department deployed 21,773 security personnel, 1,438 teams, 1 helicopter, and 2 drones as part of the holiday security measures.
“Arrive Late, But Safely”
Chief Commissioner Dolu issued a warning to citizens returning from the holiday, urging them to avoid driving while fatigued. “Let’s be patient, use our seat belts, and make it a habit. Let’s pay attention to issues such as illegal overtaking, driving while sleepy or tired. Let’s arrive at our destination late, but safely,” he advised.
He also highlighted that due to the increased traffic density during the return journey, travel times would be extended, and there would be periodic congestion in certain areas.
Focus on Driver Behavior and Accident Prevention
The air-supported inspections primarily focused on identifying and addressing risky driver behaviors that could lead to accidents. The ability to monitor traffic from above allowed authorities to gain a comprehensive overview of road conditions and respond swiftly to any emerging incidents.
The deployment of such extensive resources underscores the commitment of Turkish authorities to ensuring public safety on the roads, especially during periods of high travel volume like holiday returns.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to leverage technology for more efficient and effective traffic management and enforcement, ultimately aiming to reduce the number of traffic accidents and fatalities.
