Istanbul closes three public beaches over water pollution
People relax under umbrellas at a public beach on a sunny day. (AA Photo)
The Istanbul Governor’s Office ordered the temporary closure of three public swimming areas after water samples failed to meet public health standards.
Authorities tested water from 15 popular beaches throughout the city on Sept. 4 to monitor public health. Laboratory results showed contamination at swimming zones in front of the Bakırköy-Yeşilköy International Hospital, the Bakırköy-Yeşilköy Police Station and Sarıyer-Gümüşdere Beach.
The governor’s office officially notified the Istanbul Municipality and other relevant agencies to investigate and eliminate potential pollution sources. Officials also instructed local district municipalities to shut off access to the affected waters, ordering them to inform residents through signs, posters and public announcements while taking all necessary safety measures.
