Fine on the way for ferries to prevent noise on Bosphorus

ISTANBUL - Anatolia News Agency

The new measurements are taken to prevent noise pollution on the Bosphorus, after complaints about the excessive noise of fishing and passenger boats. DHA photo

Istanbul’s Directorate of Environment and Urban Planning is starting a new initiative to prevent noise pollution on the Bosphorus, by introducing compulsory waterlocks (silencers) on tour boats and ferries. Boats that do not follow the criteria will be fined up to 1,883 Turkish Liras.

The measures have been taken following complaints about the excessive noise of fishing boats that are using engines without waterlocks on the Bosphorus, especially during the early morning.

New limits for ferries
Limits for ferries with live music events have also been determined.

The limit will be 65 decibels between 07:00-19:00, 60 decibels between 19:00-23:00, and 55 decibels between 23:00-07:00.

The Directorate of Environment and Urban Planning has already imposed a 1,883 lira fine on four ferries this month, according to reports. It will also monitor the noise levels of businesses that are on the coast of the Bosphorus with a 14 person team over the summer.