Türkiye's Istanbul enforces strict hotel closures after safety inspections

More than 250 hotels in Istanbul are set to be closed after inspections revealed multiple violations, including lack of operating licenses and fire safety shortcomings.

The inspections were conducted by regulatory authorities following the tragic incident at the Kartalkaya ski resort, which prompted heightened scrutiny of Türkiye's hospitality sector, Caliber.Az reports citing Turkish media.

According to a report, the inspections, which covered 12 districts of the city, uncovered violations in 253 hotels. Of these, 64 hotels are located in the Beyoğlu district, a popular area frequented by foreign visitors.

Istanbul's Governor, Davut Gül, confirmed that all hotels found in violation would be closed and sealed by the end of the week, with a final deadline set for February 3. The city is home to approximately 3,000 hotels, and the closures represent a significant move to ensure compliance with safety standards.

The inspections are part of a broader initiative following a directive from Türkiye's Ministry of Tourism, which was issued in response to the tragedy at the Kartalkaya ski resort. The aim of the inspections is to safeguard public health and safety by ensuring that hotels meet necessary legal and safety requirements.

To recall, a devastating fire broke out at a ski resort in Kartalkaya, Türkiye, on the night of January 21.

The fire broke out in the restaurant area of the 12-storey wooden hotel. The flames rapidly spread throughout the structure. According to Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, emergency services arrived at the scene within 40-45 minutes, but the fire proved difficult to contain.

Despite emergency responders arriving very quickly, the fire's intensity left many trapped, with some attempting to escape by jumping out of windows.

Of the 238 guests staying at the hotel that night, 79 lost their lives and 51 sustained injuries. Some individuals attempted to escape by jumping out of windows in desperation. The disaster left a profound impact across the nation.

By Vafa Guliyeva