Istanbul official mandates closure of hotels without safety certificates in Turkey


Iain Hoey
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Istanbul governor initiates hotel safety reviews in Turkey
According to Duvar English, Istanbul Governor Davut Gül announced on 30 January 2025 that a process had begun for reviewing hotel safety in Turkey.
The announcement follows a fire at a ski resort causing 79 fatalities.
The governor noted issues with hotel licensing and lodging certificates.
Hotel licence and certificate requirements
The process will close facilities lacking a licence or lodging certificate from the Culture and Tourism Ministry.
Istanbul Governor Davut Gül stated: “As of Monday, we will have closed all accommodation facilities that either lack a license or, despite having one, do not possess a basic lodging certificate from the Culture and Tourism Ministry.”
Officials plan to close facilities by week’s end.
Fire safety measures and building inspections
A fire in Bolu, which caused 78 deaths, led to a review of fire safety measures.
Authorities inspected institutions and buildings needing oversight after the incident.
An investigation at the Grand Kartal Hotel revealed fire protection issues.
Public safety coordination and district measures
Municipal and fire department units are working with district governors to enforce safety.
The process follows a set timeline for inspections in the affected areas.
Local units will coordinate to ensure public safety.
Istanbul governor initiates hotel safety reviews in Turkey: Summary
According to Duvar English, Istanbul Governor Davut Gül announced on 30 January 2025 that a process had begun for reviewing hotel safety in Turkey.
The review follows a fire at a ski resort causing 79 fatalities.
Facilities lacking a licence or lodging certificate from the Culture and Tourism Ministry will be closed.
The governor stated: “As of Monday, we will have closed all accommodation facilities that either lack a license or, despite having one, do not possess a basic lodging certificate from the Culture and Tourism Ministry.”
Officials plan to close facilities by week’s end.
The review includes inspections of fire safety measures after the Bolu incident causing 78 deaths.
Municipal and fire department units are working with district governors to enforce safety.
An investigation at the Grand Kartal Hotel revealed fire protection issues.
The measures are scheduled within a timeline to ensure public safety.
All actions follow government directives.