Turkey’s Kurdish-majority Van (Wan) Metropolitan Municipality has launched European Mobility Week under the theme “Shared Public Spaces.” The event, aimed at promoting sustainable urban mobility, began with a bicycle tour led by the city’s co-mayors Neslihan Şedal and Abdullah Zeydan. Numerous local officials, civil society organisations, sports clubs and residents joined the event, which started at Kent Park and ended at Musa Anter Park, where a press statement was delivered.
In their speeches, the co-mayors highlighted the city’s pressing traffic and transportation problems. “Our goal is to address the deep-rooted issues of traffic and mobility by encouraging people to opt for public transport, walking and cycling,” Şedal said. She emphasised the need for a more sustainable, eco-friendly transport system in Van.
Şedal also reiterated the importance of creating sustainable and ecological cities, calling on citizens to take responsibility for protecting the city’s natural and historical heritage. Zeydan further added that while the municipality’s resources may be limited, their commitment to creating greener, more democratic and accessible urban spaces remains strong.
The event also highlighted an ongoing cleanliness campaign titled “Responsible Society, Clean Van”, which the municipality had launched some weeks earlier. The co-mayors urged the public and local businesses to take active responsibility for maintaining the city’s cleanliness, with future campaigns focusing on creating pedestrian-friendly spaces.
European Mobility Week activities will continue in Van until 19 September, featuring various events promoting sustainable urban practices.
